This Apple Cake is a simple, quick, and delicious recipe that combines a soft, fluffy cake with the sweet and tart flavors of apples. It’s perfect for when you need a cozy dessert in a hurry, and it’s sure to impress with its melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- Eggs: 2
- Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g)
- Milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Sunflower Oil: 1/3 cup (80 ml)
- Flour: 1.5 cups (about 190 g)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla Essence: 1 teaspoon
For the Topping:
- Apples: 2 (preferably tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Melted Butter: 60 g (about 4 tablespoons)
- Sugar: 2-3 tablespoons (for a sweet, crunchy topping)
Baking Equipment:
- Baking Pan: 27 x 18 cm (10.5 x 7 inches)
- Grease: with butter
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Sugars: 15 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Grease a 27 x 18 cm (10.5 x 7 inch) baking mold with butter and set it aside. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and slides out easily after baking.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until well combined and slightly frothy. This can be done by hand with a whisk or with an electric mixer on low speed.
- Add the milk and sunflower oil to the egg mixture, and mix until smooth. This will add moisture and keep the cake tender.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, then add the vanilla essence. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and the batter is smooth with no lumps.
Step 3: Prepare the Apples
- Peel and core the apples, then cut them into small cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Tart and sweet apples work best for a balanced flavor.
- Gently fold the apple pieces into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This will ensure every bite has a delicious apple flavor.
Step 4: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking mold, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the batter. This adds richness and a beautiful golden crust.
- Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of sugar over the top, adding a sweet, crunchy finish to the cake.
Step 5: Bake in the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). Ensure your oven is fully heated before baking for the best results.
- Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let the cake cool in the mold for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This will help set the cake and make slicing easier.
- Slice and enjoy your delicious apple cake, perfect as a cozy dessert or a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
- For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a wholesome start to your day.
- As a Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream.
- With Tea or Coffee: Enjoy as an afternoon treat with your favorite hot beverage.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Apples: Tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal for baking as they hold their shape and add a balanced flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to keep the cake light and tender.
- Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your cake around the 35-minute mark. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5 minutes.
Variations
- Add Spices: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Add Nuts: Fold in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Use Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears, peaches, or berries for a different twist.
Enjoy making this Apple Cake—a recipe that’s as quick as it is delightful. Perfect for last-minute guests or a comforting treat, this cake will surely become a go-to in your kitchen!