Description
This classic European Apple Cake features tender apple slices layered between a spiced, buttery batter. With warm cinnamon and vanilla notes, it bakes to a golden perfection, making it a comforting dessert or tea-time treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 4 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Gala)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup milk
Optional
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Set them aside for layering in the cake.
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the vanilla extract and the melted butter until fully incorporated.
- Make the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Stir gently until just combined to form a smooth batter, avoiding overmixing.
- Assemble First Layer: Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Arrange Apples: Evenly place half of the sliced apples over the batter layer in the pan.
- Add Remaining Batter and Apples: Pour the remaining batter over the apples, smoothing the top, then arrange the remaining apple slices on top to finish the layering.
- Bake the Cake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar if desired. For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Gala for the best flavor and texture contrast.
- Ensure the butter is melted but not hot when mixing with eggs to avoid curdling.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
- Line the pan with parchment to easily release the cake after baking.
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure.