Hey there, apple lovers! Today, I’m diving into a French classic that has been a staple at our family gatherings: the French Apple Cake. Trust me, this one’s a must-try if you’re into simple, delicious desserts that won’t keep you chained to the kitchen for hours.
Speaking of family gatherings, every time I make this cake, it reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen where the smell of baked apples meant something wonderful was coming. I might’ve tried sneaking a taste or two before it was fully cooled. No judgment if you try it too!
And if you love this recipe, don’t forget to check out my other cozy fall dessert: Classic Apple Pie. Now, let’s dive right in!
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You’re likely to have these ingredients on hand.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip this up even on a busy day.
- Deliciously Authentic: It brings a slice of France to your table. Perfect with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, this cake fits the bill.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain (all-purpose) flour
- 1/2 cup caster sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, beaten lightly
- 1/3 cup full cream milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 large apples (about 1 kg / 2 pounds), cored, peeled, and cut into thin slices
- Icing sugar to dust (optional)
For the topping:
- 1/3 cup caster sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten lightly
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
Step-by-step instructions
Getting started
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Make sure it’s on bake mode, not the fan.
Prepare the batter:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the vanilla, eggs, oil, and milk, then mix until it’s all well combined.
Mixing in the apples
Add those apples:
Toss the apple slices into the batter.
Feel free to use your hands to ensure each slice gets coated—it’s a bit messy, but completely worth it!
Pour into a pan:
Transfer the apple-batter mix into your prepared baking pan.
Nice and toasty:
Bake the cake on the center shelf for 30 minutes.
Topping time
Prepare the topping:
While the cake is baking, mix together the egg, sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl.
Cake comes out:
Once the initial 30 minutes are up, remove your cake from the oven.
Spread evenly:
Pour the topping mixture over evenly.
Return it to the oven for another 20 minutes.
Cool and serve
Out of the oven:
Let your cake cool on a wire rack.
Final touches:
Run a knife around the pan’s edges and turn the cake onto a serving plate.
Dust with icing sugar if you like.
Recipe tips & variations
- Apples: Try using Granny Smiths for a tangier flavor.
- Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to taste if you’d prefer it less sweet.
- Spices: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
Storage & reheating
- Store: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the oven for a few minutes at 180°C (350°F) if you enjoy it warm.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the French apple cake?
Yes, you can! Wrap slices individually and store in an airtight container in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
2. What kind of apples work best?
I recommend a firm apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
4. Can I add nuts or raisins?
Feel free to add up to 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
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Mouthwatering Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos for Ultimate Comfort
Nothing beats the comforting aroma of baked apples wafting through your home. I hope you love making this French Apple Cake as much as I do—it’s truly a slice of happiness on a plate!
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French Apple Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and simple French Apple Cake recipe perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain (all-purpose) flour
- 1/2 cup caster sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, beaten lightly
- 1/3 cup full cream milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 large apples (about 1 kg / 2 pounds), cored, peeled, and cut into thin slices
- Icing sugar to dust (optional)
- 1/3 cup caster sugar (for topping)
- 1 large egg, beaten lightly (for topping)
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Make sure it’s on bake mode, not the fan.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the vanilla, eggs, oil, and milk, then mix until it’s all well combined.
- Toss the apple slices into the batter. Feel free to use your hands to ensure each slice gets coated.
- Transfer the apple-batter mix into your prepared baking pan.
- Bake the cake on the center shelf for 30 minutes.
- While the cake is baking, mix together the egg, sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl for the topping.
- Once the initial 30 minutes are up, remove your cake from the oven.
- Pour the topping mixture over evenly. Return it to the oven for another 20 minutes.
- Let your cake cool on a wire rack.
- Run a knife around the pan’s edges and turn the cake onto a serving plate. Dust with icing sugar if you like.
Notes
- Try using Granny Smiths for a tangier flavor.
- Adjust the sugar to taste if you’d prefer it less sweet.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice