This French Apple Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert featuring a tender crumb and lightly spiced flavor. With chunks of fresh apples throughout, it’s finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a refined touch that makes it perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This French Apple Cake combines the comforting flavors of fresh apples and cinnamon in a light and airy cake. The tender crumb, subtle sweetness, and delicate spice make it the ideal treat for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Its rustic elegance, paired with the smoothness of powdered sugar on top, brings the essence of French baking into your home. It’s the perfect cake to enjoy with coffee, tea, or as a dessert after a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Add Nuts: You can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the apples.
- Spices: For more depth, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves alongside the cinnamon to give the cake an extra aromatic kick.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the cooled cake for a sweet finish and extra richness.
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus note that balances the sweetness of the apples.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the French Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Serve at room temperature, or gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this cake?
Yes, you can use any variety of apples you prefer. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Gala or Fuji apples offer a sweeter flavor.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes to bake.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container, and dust it with powdered sugar just before serving.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake before dusting it with powdered sugar. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom of the cake?
Toss the diced apples lightly in flour before adding them to the batter. This will help distribute them more evenly throughout the cake.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil instead of butter. The texture may be slightly different, but the cake will still be moist and delicious.
Can I make this cake in a square pan or other shapes?
Yes, you can use a different pan, such as a square or rectangular pan. Adjust the baking time based on the pan’s size, and keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.
Can I add a glaze to this cake?
Yes, you can add a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk or even a vanilla glaze for a bit of extra sweetness.
How long will the cake stay fresh?
The cake stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature. For extended freshness, refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, low-fat milk can be used, though the cake may be slightly less rich in flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This French Apple Cake offers the perfect balance of tender crumb, lightly spiced flavor, and fresh apples in every bite. Its simplicity and elegance make it a versatile dessert that works beautifully for any occasion, whether enjoyed with tea, coffee, or as a comforting treat on a crisp day. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
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PrintFrench Apple Cake
A simple yet elegant French apple cake with a tender crumb and lightly spiced flavor, featuring chunks of fresh apples throughout, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a refined touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the batter.
- Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
- Ensure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter to avoid them sinking to the bottom during baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg