French Apple Cake

There’s something truly delightful about a warm piece of cake that has the sweetness of apples and the comfort of spices. French apple cake is exactly that—a simple yet elegant dessert that warms the heart and brings smiles to faces. This cake is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon. The rich scent of baked apples and rum fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist. Let’s dive into how you can create this tempting treat!

What Goes into This French Apple Cake

To make this delicious cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2/3 cup (135 g) granulated sugar, plus more for sprinkling over the cake
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 tablespoons dark rum
2 medium baking apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes, about 2 1/2 cups
Confectioners’ sugar (optional, for decorating the cake)

Step-by-Step French Apple Cake Recipe

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and dark rum until everything is incorporated.
Gradually fold in the flour mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Carefully add the chopped apples into the batter, folding until evenly mixed.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle a little extra sugar over the top for a lovely caramelization.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
If desired, dust the cooled cake with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

How to Serve French Apple Cake

Serving your French apple cake should be as enjoyable as baking it! Here are some ideas:

Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve it warm or at room temperature.
Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an added indulgence.
For a touch of elegance, serve each slice with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
You can also enjoy it alongside tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon treat.

Helpful Tricks for French Apple Cake

Here are some tips and variations to make your French apple cake even better:

Use a mix of apples: Combining sweet and tart apples can enhance the flavor. Try Granny Smith and Honeycrisp!
Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring extra warmth and depth to your cake.
Make it a day ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

French Apple Cake FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best, you can use any type you prefer, just keep in mind the sweetness of the apples will affect the flavor.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment!

Can I substitute the dark rum?

If you prefer not to use rum, you can replace it with apple juice or omit it altogether for a delicious non-alcoholic version!

There you have it—a delightful French apple cake recipe that’s both simple and satisfying. I hope you give this cake a try and enjoy every bite! Happy baking!