Mary Berry’s Old Fashioned Apple Cake is a delightful treat that evokes memories of cozy family gatherings and warm kitchen aromas. This cake showcases the deliciousness of fresh apples, making it a favorite dessert among many. With its tender crumb and sweet apple filling, it’s perfect for tea time or as a comforting dessert after dinner. Plus, it’s easy to make, so even beginners can whip it up with confidence!
What Goes into This Old Fashioned Apple Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this beautiful cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 225g (1 cup) softened butter
- 225g (1 cup) caster sugar
- 275g (2 cups) self-raising flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 4 large eggs
- 450g (1lb) cooking apples (e.g., Bramley)
- 2 tbsp demerara sugar
These simple ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful cake that highlights the natural sweetness of the apples.
Step-by-Step Old Fashioned Apple Cake Recipe
Here’s how you can easily make this lovely cake:
-
Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F) and prepare a 9-inch round cake tin by greasing it lightly.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, caster sugar, self-raising flour, baking powder, and eggs.
-
Using an electric mixer, beat everything together until the batter is smooth and well-combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
-
Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces. Gently fold them into the cake batter until evenly distributed.
-
Spoon the batter into the prepared cake tin, making sure to level the surface with a spatula.
-
Sprinkle the demerara sugar evenly over the top of the batter for a delightful crunch when baked.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Apple Cake
Once your cake has cooled slightly, it’s time to serve! This cake is delicious on its own but can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. You might also like to add a dusting of icing sugar on top for a touch of elegance. For a comforting afternoon snack, enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee.
Helpful Tricks for Old Fashioned Apple Cake
Here are a few tips and variations to enhance your baking experience:
- Choose Your Apples Wisely: For the best flavor, use tart cooking apples like Bramley. Their natural acidity balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
- Add Spices: Consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for added warmth and spice. This complements the apples beautifully.
- Make It Ahead: This cake stores wonderfully! You can make it a day ahead and keep it in an airtight container for an even moister texture.
Old Fashioned Apple Cake FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, while Bramley cooking apples are recommended for their tartness, you can use other varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a different flavor profile.
How long will this cake last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to 5 days at room temperature, and up to 2 weeks if refrigerated.
Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake either whole or in slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to three months.
Mary Berry’s Old Fashioned Apple Cake is truly a classic that everyone should try at least once. With its simple ingredients and easy instructions, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying a slice of this delightful cake. Happy baking!