Ingredients
Fruits
- 6 medium apples (firm, crisp variety like Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Toppings
- 2 tbsp sliced almonds (for topping)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples very thinly using a mandoline if possible to ensure even slices. Place them in a large bowl and set aside.
- Whisk eggs and sugars: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with both granulated and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender cake texture.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in the melted butter, whole milk, and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Sift and combine dry ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, then whisk these into the wet mixture until a smooth batter forms without lumps.
- Fold in apple slices: Gently fold the thin apple slices into the batter, ensuring each slice is lightly coated. The batter will be thin, designed to just bind the apple layers together.
- Prepare baking pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf or square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal.
- Arrange batter in pan: Pour the apple and batter mixture into the prepared pan. Press lightly to arrange the apples into neat, even layers within the batter for visual appeal and even cooking.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly over the top to add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor during baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and set in the center when tested with a toothpick.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan; cooling helps the cake to set properly and hold its shape when sliced. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Using a mandoline to slice the apples ensures uniform thin slices which cook evenly.
- Choosing firm, crisp apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady provides the best texture and flavor balance.
- The cake batter is intentionally thin to allow the apples to be the star of the recipe while binding the layers together.
- Cooling the cake completely before slicing prevents it from falling apart and improves texture.
- Sliced almonds on top add a lovely crunch and complement the apple flavors perfectly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian