Description
Irish Apple Cake is a rustic, mildly sweet dessert made with tart apples folded into a tender, subtly spiced batter and topped with a crunchy sugar crust. Often served with custard or cream, it’s a beloved traditional treat perfect for any cozy occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon or 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk or buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 2 cups tart apples (Granny Smith or Bramley), peeled and chopped
- 2 tbsp coarse sugar or brown sugar (for topping)
Optional custard sauce (for serving):
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk or cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round or springform cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon or nutmeg (if using).
- Add cold cubed butter and rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the granulated sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with milk and vanilla (if using), then add to the dry mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples evenly.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle with coarse sugar or brown sugar.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
- For the custard (optional): In a saucepan, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale. Heat milk in a separate pan until steaming (not boiling), then slowly whisk into the yolks. Return mixture to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. Do not boil. Stir in vanilla. Serve warm with the cake.
Notes
- Use firm, tart apples for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter—mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
- Omit spices for a more traditional version or try nutmeg for subtle warmth.
- The cake pairs beautifully with custard, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream.
- Store covered at room temperature or refrigerate to extend shelf life.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
