A timeless apple cake brings warmth, comfort, and a delightful aroma straight from the oven. Our Lykkers know that the smell of baked apples and the soft texture of a freshly made cake have the power to lift any mood.
This version is simple, soft, and rich with flavor—ideal for cozy afternoons or family gatherings. Here's everything needed to prepare a delicious apple cake that tastes like home.
Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients (for a 22 cm cake pan – serves 8):
- Apples (peeled and sliced): 930 g
- Granulated sugar: 200 g
- All-purpose flour: 250 g
- Butter (melted and warm): 100 g
- Whole milk (room temperature): 150 g
- Eggs (room temperature): 2
- Lemon zest: from 1 lemon
- Baking powder: 16 g
- Ground cinnamon: ½ tsp
- Fine salt: 1 pinch
- Icing sugar: as needed for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the apples:
Peel and core the apples. Slice them thinly to ensure they bake evenly and blend well into the batter. Set them aside.
Make the egg mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and frothy.
Add the melted butter:
Pour in the warm melted butter. Add a pinch of salt and the cinnamon. Mix well to incorporate.
Enhance the flavor:
Add the grated lemon zest to the mixture and continue to whisk until combined.
Combine the dry ingredients:
Sift the flour and baking powder into the bowl. Mix again, slowly pouring in the milk until the batter becomes smooth and creamy.
Fold in the apples:
Add the sliced apples to the batter and mix gently. It may seem like too many apples, but that's the key to a moist and rich cake.
Transfer and bake:
Butter and sugar the cake pan. Pour the mixture into the pan and smooth out the top.
Bake in a preheated static oven at 180°C (356°F) for approximately 55 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes. Test with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it's ready.
Serving and Storage
Presentation tip:
Let the cake cool slightly, then remove it from the pan. Dust the surface generously with icing sugar before serving. A scoop of natural yogurt or a handful of raisins on the side can complement the flavor beautifully.
Storage:
Keep the apple cake at room temperature for up to 3 days, preferably under a glass dome or in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in baking paper and sealed in a freezer bag. Defrost at room temperature or briefly warm in the oven before serving.
Customizing the Recipe
No cinnamon?
If cinnamon isn't your thing, replace it with vanilla seeds for a more delicate aroma.
Add-ins:
A handful of soaked raisins or a few tablespoons of pine nuts can be stirred into the batter for added texture and flavor.
In Conclusion
This soft apple cake is more than just a dessert—it's a gentle hug of sweetness, ideal for any occasion. With its golden crust and melt-in-the-mouth texture, it's certain to become a favorite in your kitchen, too. Our Lykkers can enjoy it fresh, share it with loved ones, or keep a slice tucked away for a quiet moment of joy.
