Embrace the warmth of home baking with this irresistible Soft Apple Cake – a perfect blend of tender crumb, sweet apples, and delicate spices that will fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma and your heart with joy.
Ingredients
- 3 whole eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup (170g) granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (100ml) seed oil
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 2 cups (240g) 00 flour
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 packet (16g) baking powder
- 3 medium apples
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour a 22-24 cm (8-9 inch) diameter cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light, pale, and frothy (about 3-4 minutes).
- While continuing to mix, slowly stream in the seed oil and milk, ensuring they are well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon (if using), and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Peel and dice two apples. Gently fold these diced apples into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Peel and slice the third apple into thin, decorative slices. Arrange these slices on top of the batter.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the apple slices for a caramelized finish.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving dish and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 20g
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 40-45 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter
- Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- Don’t overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb
- Ensure even apple distribution by tossing diced apples in a little flour
- Let the cake cool completely for clean, neat slices
Variations and Substitutions
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans
- Substitute some flour with almond flour
- Use different spices like nutmeg or cardamom
- Replace seed oil with melted butter for a richer flavor
- Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries
- Make it gluten-free with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, the cake stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q2: Can I freeze this apple cake? Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q3: What’s the best way to store the cake? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
Q4: Can I use different types of apples? Yes, but choose firm apples that hold their shape during baking.
Q5: Is this cake good for breakfast? Definitely! It’s a perfect breakfast or brunch companion.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store at room temperature for 3-4 days
- Cover with plastic wrap or in an airtight container
- Refrigerate if keeping longer than 4 days
- Bring to room temperature before serving
- Can be made a day ahead
- Tastes even better the next day as flavors meld
Enjoy this comforting Soft Apple Cake – a slice of pure, homemade happiness!
