This soft and tender apple cake is a delightful dessert that is light, airy, and full of fresh apple flavor. Made without butter, it uses oil to create a moist, fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of apples. The subtle hint of lemon adds a refreshing zest, while the apples provide a tender bite in every slice. This cake is ideal for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon snack to a comforting dessert after dinner. Simple yet packed with flavor, it’s a cake that everyone will love and ask for time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This:
You’ll love this apple cake for its moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the comforting combination of apples and lemon. The recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require any butter, making it a lighter option for those looking to cut down on fat without sacrificing flavor. The apples, macerated in lemon juice and sugar, offer a burst of fruity sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the soft, fluffy cake. This cake is perfect for anyone who loves traditional apple desserts but wants something a little lighter and healthier.
Perfect Occasion:
This apple cake is ideal for any time you want to enjoy a homemade dessert that feels both simple and indulgent. Serve it for breakfast or brunch alongside a cup of coffee, or bring it out as a light dessert after a family meal. It’s also perfect for holidays, where its soft texture and fruity flavor make it a great option for those looking for a less heavy dessert. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just want to bake something comforting, this cake is the perfect choice.
Decoration Tips:
For a classic look, sprinkle the cake with powdered sugar once it has cooled. If you want to add a bit more visual appeal, arrange the thin apple slices on top of the cake in a spiral pattern before baking. This will give the cake an elegant, rustic look. You could also serve the cake with a side of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate its presentation. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon over the apples on top before baking for an extra touch of warmth and spice.
Ingredients:
- 300 grams of all-purpose flour
- 180 grams of granulated sugar
- 3 eggs
- 60 grams of oil
- 200 ml of milk
- 1 packet of baking powder (about 16 grams)
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Juice and zest of half a lemon
- 4 apples
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples:
Peel and slice the apples. Place them in a bowl, add one tablespoon of sugar, and drizzle with the juice of half a lemon. Let the apples macerate while you prepare the rest of the cake. This will allow the apples to absorb the lemon flavor and release some of their juices. - Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. Slowly add the oil in a steady stream while continuing to mix. Incorporate the grated lemon zest to infuse the batter with fresh lemon flavor. - Add the Dry Ingredients:
Sift the flour together with the baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir gently until everything is well combined and smooth. - Incorporate the Egg Whites:
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter using a spatula, stirring from the bottom to the top to avoid deflating the mixture. Add two of the apples, cut into small chunks, and fold them into the batter. - Bake the Cake:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) in static mode. Grease and flour a 24 cm (9-inch) round cake tin for a taller cake or a 26 cm (10-inch) tin for a slightly thinner cake. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and level the surface with the back of a spoon. Arrange the remaining two apples, sliced thinly, on top of the batter in a decorative pattern. - Baking Time:
Bake the cake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and firm to the touch. - Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic finishing touch.
Enjoy!
