This enchanting French-inspired dessert gets its mysterious name from the incredible amount of thinly sliced apples that seem to “disappear” into a delicate, custard-like batter. The result is a cake where tender apple slices are suspended in the lightest possible sponge, creating an almost magical eating experience that will leave your guests wondering how something so simple can taste so extraordinary.
Ingredients
- 4 Honey Crisp apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (about 800g / 1.75 lbs)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (65g / 2.3 oz)
- 1/2 cup warm whole milk (120ml / 4 fl oz)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (30g / 1 oz)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (65g / 2.3 oz)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Sliced almonds for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Heat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line an 11×5 inch (28×12 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into very thin rings, about 2mm thick. The thinner the slices, the more “invisible” they become in the final cake.
- Make the batter base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and doubled in volume (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add wet ingredients: Gradually mix in the warm milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined and smooth.
- Fold in apples: Add the sliced apples to the batter and gently fold until every slice is well coated with the mixture.
- Arrange in pan: Transfer the apple-batter mixture to your prepared loaf pan, arranging the apples as evenly as possible.
- Add finishing touches: Pour any remaining batter over the top and gently shake the pan to help distribute it evenly. Sprinkle with sliced almonds if using.
- Bake to perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Time and Serving Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Serves: 8-10 slices
Calories per serving: Approximately 165 calories
Nutrition highlights: High in fiber from apples, moderate protein from eggs, contains vitamin C and antioxidants.
Why This Invisible Apple Cake is Perfect for You
This remarkable dessert strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and wholesomeness. The high apple-to-batter ratio means you’re getting plenty of fiber, natural sweetness, and beneficial antioxidants with every bite. Unlike traditional heavy cakes, this lighter version allows the natural flavors of the fruit to shine while providing just enough structure to hold everything together.
The cake’s unique texture makes it incredibly versatile – serve it warm for breakfast with a dollop of Greek yogurt, enjoy it as an afternoon snack with tea, or present it as an elegant dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its naturally moist texture means it stays fresh for several days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for entertaining.
The minimal amount of sugar and butter compared to traditional cakes makes this a more health-conscious choice that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Plus, the high concentration of apples provides natural pectin, which aids digestion and helps you feel satisfied with smaller portions.