Caramelized Apple Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the warm flavors of baked apples and the sweetness of caramel. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an afternoon snack with tea or a dessert for a gathering. With its tender crumb and gooey topping, every bite feels like a cozy hug. Imagine your kitchen filled with the heavenly aroma of apples and cinnamon—it’s one of those comforting experiences that you’ll want to share with friends and family.
What You’ll Need for Caramelized Apple Cake
To bake this delicious cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 large apple, thinly sliced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 15g (1 tablespoon) butter
- 15g (1 tablespoon) granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon to taste
- 15g (1 tablespoon) apricot jam
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 17g (0.6 oz) vanilla sugar (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
- Pinch of salt
- 120ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil
- 160ml (2/3 cup) whole milk
- 240g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 20g (2 tablespoons) baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Caramelized Apple Cake Recipe
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Prepare the Apples: Slice the apple thinly, about 3mm thick, using a sharp knife. Toss the slices with lemon juice right away to prevent them from browning.
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Caramelize the Apples: In a non-stick pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the granulated sugar and allow it to caramelize for about 1 minute. Lay the apple slices in a single layer in the pan and sprinkle with cinnamon. Cook for around 3-4 minutes, until they turn golden. Stir in the apricot jam until the apples are glossy. Set aside while you prepare the batter.
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Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C (356 degrees F). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
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Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, and salt until foamy—this should take about 2 minutes. Gradually pour in the vegetable oil while whisking continuously. After that, add the milk and vanilla extract, whisking until combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake tough.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Arrange the caramelized apples on top in a nice circular pattern. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
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Cool and Dust: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust it with powdered sugar while it’s still warm for a touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Caramelized Apple Cake
Serving this cake is both simple and rewarding. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast. It also goes wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal choice for afternoon gatherings. For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or crushed nuts on top just before serving.
Recipe Tips & Variations
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Swap the Fruit: Although caramelized apples are delicious, you can experiment with other fruits too. Pears or peaches could make a lovely alternative that pairs equally well with caramel.
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Add Nuts: For a little crunch, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking.
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Make It Gluten-Free: You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive folks without losing any of the delightful taste.
Caramelized Apple Cake FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this cake?
Yes, you can use any apple variety you prefer! Just make sure it’s a variety that holds up well to baking, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
This Caramelized Apple Cake is truly a delightful dessert that is sure to impress. The combination of caramelized apples and a fluffy cake is a match made in heaven. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try—you won’t regret it!