This French Apple Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to bake this moist, apple-studded cake, making it a fantastic addition to your apple cake recipes collection.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Apples: Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best flavor. You can also use Fuji or Gala.
- All-Purpose Flour: For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, but salted butter works if that’s all you have; just reduce the added salt slightly.
- Eggs: Crucial for structure. No easy substitution here.
- Granulated Sugar: Can slightly reduce if your apples are very sweet, but it balances the tartness.
Ingredients
Main:
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
Optional:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 280-320 kcal (varies by ingredients)
- Tools Needed: 8-inch round cake pan, mixing bowls, whisk, rubber spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking. This ensures your beautiful apple cake releases easily.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, making your French Apple Cake tender.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Your batter will look smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents in your apple cake.
5. Gently Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake tough.
6. Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the diced apples using a rubber spatula. Ensure the apple pieces are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent flavor in every slice of your apple cake.
7. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and spread evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the apple cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, before serving. This is a delightful apple cake recipe.
Variation Ideas
- Spiced Apple Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warmer flavor.
- Nutty Apple Cake: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans with the apples.
- Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a brighter flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover French Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for a fresh-baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of apples are best for French Apple Cake?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully, as they hold their shape and provide a nice balance to the sweetness.
Can I make this apple cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake this apple cake a day in advance. Store it at room temperature in an airtight container.
How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom?
Ensure your diced apples are not too large. You can also toss them lightly with a tablespoon of the flour mixture before folding them into the batter.
Is this a dense or light apple cake?
This French Apple Cake is delightfully moist and tender, with a texture that falls between a dense cake and a light sponge.
Can I freeze French Apple Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cooled cake, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Why is my apple cake dry?
Overmixing the batter or overbaking the cake can lead to dryness. Follow the baking times closely and mix until just combined.