Traditional Irish Apple Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the best of autumn flavors in a warm, comforting slice. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a piece of Irish tradition that has been passed down through generations. With its tender crumb and sweet, spiced apple filling, this cake is the perfect way to celebrate family gatherings, cozy evenings, or a simple afternoon treat. The combination of apples, spices, and a buttery cake base creates a delicious harmony that’s truly irresistible.
What You’ll Need for Traditional Irish Apple Cake
To make this beautiful cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 6 ounces (170g) cold, diced butter
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 3 large apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
Step-by-Step Traditional Irish Apple Cake Recipe
Creating this cake is straightforward! Just follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and line an 8 or 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cloves, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Add the cold diced butter to the flour mixture. Work it in using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the sugar until evenly mixed. Then, gently fold in the sliced apples, making sure they are well-coated.
- In a small bowl, lightly beat the eggs and milk together. Pour this into the apple-flour mixture and stir until everything is just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the remaining granulated sugar over the top.
- Bake for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
The Best Way to Serve It
For a delightful serving experience, slice the Traditional Irish Apple Cake and serve it slightly warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Coffee or a cup of tea is the perfect drink to complement the sweet and spiced flavors of the cake. For a touch of nostalgia, serve it on a pretty plate and enjoy sharing slices with family and friends!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add Some Nuts: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch.
- Mix Up the Apples: Use a combination of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor profile. Varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work beautifully together.
- Spice It Up: If you love cinnamon, feel free to add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the flour mixture for an extra layer of warmth.
Traditional Irish Apple Cake FAQs
Can I use different types of apples?
You can absolutely use any kind of apples you enjoy! Tart apples like Granny Smith add a lovely balance to the sweetness of the cake.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for longer freshness.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the apple cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
There you have it! A warm, comforting, and delicious Traditional Irish Apple Cake that is perfect for any occasion. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy every delightful bite!