Ingredients

Vanilla Custard Layer

• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup sugar (60 g)
• 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch (30 g)
• 2 cups milk (480 ml / 16 fl oz)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

Apple Cake Layer

• 3 eggs
• ¾ cup sugar (150 g)
• A pinch of salt
• ⅔ cup sunflower oil (80 ml / 2.7 fl oz)
• 2 cups flour (300 g)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 apples, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon powdered sugar, for decoration

Instructions

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: ~290 kcal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Custard Layer

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the cornstarch, mixing well to ensure there are no lumps.
3. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to combine.
4. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens into a creamy custard. This process should take about 7-10 minutes.
5. Once the custard thickens, remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla essence. Set the custard aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Cake Batter 6. Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and flour an 8- or 9-inch round baking pan. 7. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. 8. Gradually add the sunflower oil, whisking continuously until well incorporated. 9. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, stirring gently until you have a smooth batter. 10. Fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine and Bake 11. Pour the apple cake batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. 12. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 13. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before carefully removing it from the pan.

Step 4: Assemble and Decorate 14. Once the cake has cooled, pour the prepared vanilla custard over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula. You can allow the custard to drip down the sides of the cake for a rustic look, or keep it contained on the top for a more classic presentation. 15. Dust the top with a teaspoon of powdered sugar for decoration, adding a light, sweet touch to the finished dessert.

Step 5: Serve 16. Slice and serve the Vanilla Custard Apple Cake with a garnish of fresh mint or an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar. Enjoy this classic dessert slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Vanilla Custard Apple Cake combines the universally loved flavors of vanilla custard and apple cake, making it a timeless dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. This recipe’s appeal lies in its simplicity: everyday ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s both impressive and comforting. Vanilla custard has been a staple in desserts for centuries, known for its smooth, luscious texture, while apple cake brings a homey, rustic feel to the dish.

The balance between the rich custard and the light, fluffy cake with bits of soft, baked apple makes this recipe a family favorite. Each bite brings together the classic flavor of vanilla with the slight tartness of the apples, making it an irresistible treat.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ~290 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Calcium: 8% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of oil?
Yes, if you don’t have sunflower oil, you can use vegetable or canola oil as a substitute. Avoid oils with strong flavors, such as olive oil, as they may overpower the cake’s flavor.

2. Can I prepare the custard in advance?
Yes, the vanilla custard can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to use, give it a gentle stir to restore its creamy consistency.

3. What other fruits can I add to this recipe?
If you’d like to switch it up, try adding pears or even berries for a twist on the traditional apple flavor. These fruits complement the custard and cake nicely.

4. How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. The top should be golden and slightly springy to the touch.

Tips for Making Perfect Vanilla Custard Apple Cake

• Ensure the Custard is Smooth: To prevent lumps, stir the custard continuously over medium heat until it thickens. A low, steady heat prevents scorching or curdling.
• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for baking apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala. These varieties hold their shape and provide a slight tartness that balances the cake’s sweetness.
• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: When adding the flour, gently fold it into the egg mixture to prevent overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
• Add Cinnamon (Optional): For an autumn twist, add a pinch of cinnamon to the cake batter to complement the apple flavor.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake may become denser over time, so warm individual slices slightly before serving.

Freezing: You can freeze the apple cake (without the custard) for up to a month. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to preserve freshness. When ready to serve, thaw the cake at room temperature and add the custard topping just before serving.

Conclusion

The Vanilla Custard Apple Cake is a delightful blend of creamy and fruity flavors that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. This timeless recipe marries the delicate taste of vanilla with the natural sweetness of baked apples, creating a dessert that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. With simple steps and everyday ingredients, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels, making it a fantastic choice for a cozy family dessert or an elegant addition to a holiday spread.

The contrast between the soft custard and the tender apple cake keeps each bite interesting, while the slight dusting of powdered sugar adds an extra touch of charm. Perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, this Vanilla Custard Apple Cake is a dessert that will become a staple in your home, offering a sense of nostalgia and warmth every time it’s served. Whether you’re a lover of classic desserts or just looking for a comforting treat, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression.