Discover an innovative apple dessert that’s taking the world by storm – a flourless, eggless layered apple creation that can be served either as an elegant cake or a luxurious jam-like dessert. This versatile recipe transforms simple apples into a spectacular treat that’s naturally gluten-free and incredibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This unique dessert showcases the natural beauty and sweetness of apples in a revolutionary way. With no flour or eggs required, it’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a healthier dessert option. The magic happens as the apple layers combine with honey and spices during baking, creating either a sliceable cake or a spreadable treat, depending on your preference.
Ingredients
Main Components:
- Apples: 6-7 medium (about 2.2 lbs | 1 kg)
- Honey: 3 tablespoons (45ml)
- Butter: for greasing
Spice Mixture:
- Cornstarch: 3 tablespoons (24g)
- Sugar: 3 tablespoons (37g)
- Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons (5g)
Instructions
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 170°C (338°F)
- Prepare the apples:
- Peel completely
- Cut in half
- Remove cores and seeds
- Slice thinly (about 2-3mm thick)
- Make the spice mixture:
- Combine cornstarch
- Add sugar
- Add cinnamon
- Mix thoroughly
Assembly:
- Prepare the baking dish:
- Grease thoroughly with butter
- Pour honey across the bottom
- Layer the dessert:
- Arrange first layer of apple slices
- Sprinkle with spice mixture
- For cake texture: use generous amount of mixture
- For jam texture: use lighter amount of mixture
- Continue layering apples and spice mixture
- Finish with spice mixture on top
- Baking:
- Cover with baking paper
- Bake for 1 hour
- Let cool before serving
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 145
- Protein: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Natural Sugars: 28g
- Fat: 1g
Time Requirements:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Apple Selection:
- Choose firm, tart-sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Gala
- Ensure apples are fresh and crisp
- Use similar-sized apples for even cooking
- Slicing Perfection:
- Use a mandoline for uniform slices if available
- Keep slices consistent thickness
- Pat apple slices dry if very juicy
- Texture Control:
- For cake texture: layer spice mixture generously
- For jam texture: use lighter amounts between layers
- Press down gently on layers while assembling
- Baking Success:
- Use a heavy-bottom baking dish
- Watch for browning in last 15 minutes
- Let cool completely for clean slices
Variations and Substitutions
- Sweetener Options:
- Replace honey with maple syrup
- Use agave nectar
- Try date syrup
- Spice Variations:
- Add nutmeg for warmth
- Include cardamom for complexity
- Try apple pie spice blend
- Texture Adjustments:
- Add chopped nuts between layers
- Include raisins or dried cranberries
- Sprinkle with coconut
- Serving Variations:
- Top with caramel sauce
- Serve with vanilla ice cream
- Add whipped cream
Common FAQs
Q: Why doesn’t this need flour or eggs?
A: The cornstarch and natural pectins in apples create structure while cooking.
Q: How do I know when it’s done?
A: Apples should be tender when pierced with a knife, and top should be golden brown.
Q: Can I make this sugar-free?
A: Yes, replace sugar with your preferred sweetener and adjust honey accordingly.
Q: How long does it keep?
A: Stores well in refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Store covered for up to 5 days
- Keep in original baking dish
- Cover with plastic wrap
- Reheating:
- Warm individual portions in microwave
- Heat in oven at 150°C (300°F) until warm
- Serve at room temperature
- Make-Ahead:
- Prepare spice mixture in advance
- Slice apples just before assembly
- Can be made 1 day ahead
- Serving Tips:
- Let come to room temperature before serving
- Cut with sharp knife for clean slices
- Warm slightly for jam-like consistency
Perfect for:
- Gluten-free diets
- Egg-free requirements
- Holiday desserts
- Healthy alternatives
- Apple season
- Special occasions
Serve with:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Hot tea or coffee
- Greek yogurt
- Warm custard
