Description
This European Apple Cake is a moist and tender dessert showcasing the natural sweetness and tartness of apples layered within a cinnamon-spiced batter. Featuring a simple preparation and baked to golden perfection, it’s perfect for any occasion and pairs wonderfully with powdered sugar, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 4 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Gala)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup milk
For Serving
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Set aside for layering later in the cake.
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly and then add the vanilla extract and melted butter, mixing well.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients alternately with the milk. Stir gently until just combined to form a smooth cake batter, being careful not to overmix.
- Layer Batter and Apples: Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Arrange half of the apple slices evenly over the batter.
- Add Remaining Batter and Apples: Pour the remaining batter over the layered apples, smoothing the surface, and then top with the remaining apple slices for a beautiful finish.
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool: Remove the cake from oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps it set properly.
- Serve: Once completely cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired. Optionally, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Enjoy!
Notes
- Choosing tart apples like Granny Smith balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Line the cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Check the cake for doneness with a toothpick to avoid under or over-baking.
- Serving warm with ice cream is a delicious way to enjoy this cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
