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European Apple Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 53 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: European

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

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Set them aside for layering in the cake.
  2. 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.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the vanilla extract and the melted butter until fully incorporated.
  5. 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.
  6. Assemble First Layer: Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  7. Arrange Apples: Evenly place half of the sliced apples over the batter layer in the pan.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.