Apple Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the sweetness of apples with warm, comforting spices. It’s a classic dessert that has been loved by families for generations. Imagine biting into a moist slice of cake with hints of cinnamon, lemon, and orange peeking through the rich apple flavor. This cake is not just a fantastic dessert but also a great way to use up those extra apples that are sitting in your fruit bowl. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a casual afternoon snack, this Apple Cake is sure to impress everyone.
What You’ll Need for Apple Cake
To make this delicious Apple Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 200 g (1 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
- 150 g (¾ cup) sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 70 g (5 tablespoons) melted but cooled butter
- 50 g (½ cup) raisins (optional)
- ½ small glass of rum (or water for a non-alcoholic version)
- 200 g (about 2 medium) grated apples (peeled)
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- Grated zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 16 g (1 tablespoon) baking powder
- Pine nuts, for topping
- Sugar granules, for topping
Step-by-Step Apple Cake Recipe
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Prepare the Apples: Start by peeling your apples and grating them with a coarse grater. This will give your cake a wonderful apple flavor and moisture.
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Soak the Raisins: If you’re using raisins, soak them in rum or water for about ten minutes. This helps them absorb flavor and softens them up.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, crack the eggs and add the sugar. Whisk these together until the mixture is light and frothy.
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Add the Butter: Gradually add the cooled melted butter to the egg mixture while continuing to whisk. This will keep the batter smooth.
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Incorporate the Apples and Zests: Add in the grated apples along with the cinnamon and the zest of lemon and orange. Mix everything together gently with a spatula.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder directly into the bowl, folding it in gently from bottom to top to keep the batter airy.
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Add the Raisins: Squeeze the soaked raisins to remove excess liquid, lightly flour them, and mix them into the batter. Be careful not to overmix.
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Prepare the Baking Pan: Pour the batter into a 20 cm (8-inch) round mold lined with parchment paper. Spread it evenly.
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Add Toppings: Scatter pine nuts on top and sprinkle a handful of sugar granules for a sweet crust.
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Bake: Place the cake in a preheated static oven at 180 degrees C (350 degrees F) and bake for about 40 minutes. Check for doneness with a skewer; it should come out dry but not too clean, as the cake is naturally moist.
How to Serve Apple Cake
Serving this Apple Cake is simple and delightful! Once it has cooled, slice it into generous pieces and place them on a beautiful platter. For an extra touch, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Expert Tips for Apple Cake
- Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor, use fresh, crisp apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Add Nuts for Crunch: If you love a bit of crunch, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter along with the raisins.
- Store for Freshness: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Apple Cake: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits in this cake?
Yes! You can substitute grated apples with other fruits like pears or even grated carrots for a unique twist.
2. How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a skewer into the center of the cake. It’s done when it comes out clean or slightly moist, but not wet.
3. Can I freeze Apple Cake?
Absolutely! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw before enjoying!
Baking an Apple Cake is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas and your heart with warmth. So, why not try your hand at this scrumptious recipe? Your taste buds will thank you!