Name: French Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3–4 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled; 1/4 cup whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp dark rum (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with pantry staples
Uses fresh apples for natural sweetness
No mixer required – just a bowl and whisk
Not overly sweet, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert
Beautifully rustic with a soft, moist texture
A crowd-pleaser that feels special without being fussy
Keeps well and tastes even better the next day
Can be served warm or at room temperature
Pairs beautifully with whipped cream or ice cream
Ideal for fall and apple season, but delicious year-round

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work best)
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
Whole milk
Vanilla extract
Dark rum (optional but traditional in French recipes)

Directions

Preheat your oven and grease a round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Peel, core, and dice the apples into bite-sized chunks. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
Add the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and rum (if using) to the egg mixture. Stir to combine.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Gently fold in the apple pieces, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan briefly, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This French Apple Cake serves 8.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour and 5 minutes

Variations

Spiced version: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm spice note.
Nutty twist: Fold in chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture.
Boozy boost: Swap the rum with Calvados or brandy for a deeper flavor.
Citrus note: Add a bit of lemon or orange zest to brighten the flavor.
Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Individual servings: Bake in muffin tins for mini French apple cakes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–10 minutes.
This cake also freezes well—wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What type of apples should I use for French Apple Cake?

Firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Braeburn work best. They hold their shape and provide a nice balance to the cake’s sweetness.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Yes, peeling the apples is recommended for the best texture, as the skins can be tough after baking.

Can I skip the rum?

Absolutely. While rum adds a traditional French flair, the cake is still delicious without it. You can substitute with apple juice or simply leave it out.

What can I serve with French Apple Cake?

It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or crème fraîche for an authentic French touch.

Is this cake supposed to be dense?

Yes, French Apple Cake has a moist, custardy interior due to the high ratio of apples to batter. It’s not a fluffy cake, but rather soft and tender.

Can I use a different type of pan?

A springform pan is ideal, but you can use a regular 8 or 9-inch round cake pan. Just make sure it’s well-greased and lined with parchment paper.

Can I add spices like cinnamon?

Yes, a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor. Just keep it subtle to let the apples shine.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and set.

Can I freeze French Apple Cake?

Yes, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic and store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or warm gently before serving.

Conclusion

French Apple Cake is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its soft, custardy interior filled with tender apple chunks and a delicately golden crust, this rustic French dessert is comforting and elegant all at once. Whether you’re baking for guests or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to become a go-to favorite for apple season and beyond.