Imagine the warmth of fresh apples and the sweet, inviting scent of a cake baking in your oven. That’s the magic of this Easy Apple Cake – a delightful, straightforward dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, having friends over for coffee, or simply craving a comforting dessert, this apple cake will do the trick. With a short list of ingredients, simple steps, and an irresistible outcome, you’ll find yourself baking this cake again and again. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy, flavorful apple cake:
- 100 ml of milk: This adds moisture to the batter and helps the cake rise as it bakes. You can use any type of milk you prefer, whether it’s whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk.
- 80 g of soft wheat flour: All-purpose flour works best in this recipe, giving the cake its structure without being too dense.
- 50 g of melted butter: The butter adds richness and flavor to the cake, giving it a soft, tender texture.
- 25 g of stevia sweetener (or alternatively 50 g of normal sugar): Stevia is a great low-calorie substitute for sugar, but you can use regular sugar if you prefer. The sweetness balances perfectly with the tart apples.
- 2 eggs: Eggs act as binders, providing structure and helping the cake to rise.
- 2 small apples (or 4 large ones): Apples are the star of this cake, adding natural sweetness and flavor. Choose your favorite variety, like Granny Smith or Fuji, for the best results.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
- ½ grated lemon zest: The zest adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that brightens the cake and complements the apples.
- ½ lemon juice: The lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a tangy flavor to balance the sweetness.
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious apple cake:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven is heating up, crack the 2 eggs into a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and whisk them until they become frothy. This step is crucial for ensuring that the eggs incorporate air, making the cake light and fluffy.
Next, add stevia (or sugar if you’re using that instead) and whisk it in with the eggs until the mixture becomes smooth and a little thicker. Pour in the milk, and then sprinkle in the lemon zest. Stir everything together until the batter is well combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
While the batter is coming together, it’s time to prepare the apples. Peel 2 small apples (or 4 large ones), then slice them thinly. After slicing, toss the apples with ½ lemon juice to prevent browning and to add a zesty freshness to the fruit.
Once the apples are prepped, gently fold them into the batter. You want to distribute the apple slices evenly throughout the mixture without overmixing. The apples will soften as the cake bakes, creating pockets of juicy sweetness in every bite.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift in the 80 g of soft wheat flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. The sifting process ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly mixed and free from lumps. Gently fold them into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a little bit of flour streaks is fine.
Step 4: Pour the Batter into the Baking Pan
Prepare a rectangular baking mold by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove after baking. Pour the batter into the mold and smooth the top with a spatula to make sure it’s evenly spread. For an extra touch of richness, drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top of the batter. This will give the cake a golden, crispy top as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the prepared mold in the oven and bake the cake for 55 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes of baking. It’s ready when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs. The apples will release some moisture, making the cake slightly moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once the cake has baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes in the pan. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust the cake with a light coating of icing sugar for a sweet finish. The icing sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the overall sweetness of the cake.
Serving Suggestions
This easy apple cake is delightful on its own, but it’s also perfect for pairing with a few extras to elevate the experience. Here are a few suggestions to make your dessert even more special:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the soft, fruity cake. The lightness of the whipped cream complements the richness of the cake perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: If you’re looking for an indulgent treat, serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the cake. The cold ice cream balances the warm cake, creating a perfect dessert pairing.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over each slice for an extra layer of sweetness. The rich, buttery flavor of the caramel elevates the natural sweetness of the apples, making every bite even more decadent.
- Chopped Nuts: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans on top. The nuts add a delightful texture contrast and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the apples.
Baking Tips
- Choosing Apples: The variety of apples you use will affect the flavor and texture of the cake. Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala will add more sweetness. A mix of both is also a great option.
- Measuring Flour: Be sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. This prevents the flour from being packed down, which can lead to a denser cake.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing the batter can cause the cake to become tough instead of light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the cake around 50 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sweeteners instead of stevia?
Yes, you can use any sweetener of your choice, such as honey, maple syrup, or regular sugar. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners might alter the batter’s consistency, so you may need to adjust the amount of flour.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Yes, you can replace the butter with an equal amount of vegetable or coconut oil. While the flavor will be slightly different, the cake will still turn out moist and delicious.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the soft wheat flour. Be sure to use one that is suitable for baking. You may also need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the flour blend.
How do I store this cake?
The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 15g
Conclusion
This Easy Apple Cake is a must-try dessert that combines the best of simplicity and flavor. The tender cake, packed with juicy apple slices and a hint of lemon, is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. The best part? It’s so easy to make, even novice bakers can get it right every time. Enjoy a slice with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, or just on its own – this apple cake is the perfect sweet treat. Happy baking!