Dutch Apple Cake
Dutch Apple Cake is a moist and buttery cake packed with tender fresh apples.Cinnamon adds warm, aromatic flavor to the simple homemade batter.Fresh apple pieces soften beautifully as the cake bakes.The top becomes golden while the center remains tender and moist.It is easy enough for everyday baking and elegant enough for gatherings.Serve it warm with powdered sugar, cream, or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
For the Apples
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Serving
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Prepare the Apples
- Peel and core the apples.Cut them into thin wedges or small chunks.Place them in a bowl and toss with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon.Set aside while preparing the batter.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
- Place the softened butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl.Beat for approximately 2–3 minutes until pale and creamy.
Add the Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time.Beat well after each addition.Add the vanilla extract and mix.
Add the Flour
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture.Alternate with the milk.Begin and finish with the flour mixture.Mix only until combined.
Avoid Overmixing
- Do not beat the batter excessively after adding the flour.Overmixing can make the cake dense and less tender.
Arrange the Apples
- Arrange the remaining apple slices over the surface.You can create a simple circular pattern for an attractive presentation.
Bake
- Place the cake in the preheated oven.Bake for approximately 45–55 minutes.The top should be golden brown.
Cool
- Remove the cake from the oven.Allow it to cool in the pan for approximately 10–15 minutes.Then transfer it to a wire rack.
Serve
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.For an indulgent dessert, add vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Apples: Choose firm apples that hold their shape during baking.
- Variety: Tart-sweet apples provide an excellent flavor balance.
- Cinnamon: Adjust the amount according to your preference.
- Butter: Use softened butter for a smooth batter.
- Milk: Whole milk gives the cake a tender crumb.
- Apple moisture: Very juicy apples may require slightly longer baking.
- Pan: A 9-inch round pan works well for this recipe.
- Cooling: Let the cake cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces.