Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake

This Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert, perfect for any occasion. With layers of fresh apples and a hint of cinnamon, this cake brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Baking: 40 minutes
• Total: 1 hour

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• A pinch of salt
• 135g sugar (about 2/3 cup)
• 1/3 tsp vanilla extract
• 135g milk (about 1/2 cup)
• 70ml oil (about 1/3 cup)
• 15g baking powder (about 1 tbsp)
• 300g flour (about 2 1/2 cups)
• 2-3 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• Cinnamon powder, to taste
• Additional sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
• Grease a cake mold with butter or oil.

2. Prepare the Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the 3 eggs with a pinch of salt using a mixer until frothy.
• Gradually add 135g of sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
• Add 1/3 tsp of vanilla extract, 135g of milk, and 70ml of oil to the egg mixture. Mix well.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, combine 15g of baking powder with 300g of flour.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Pour a layer of the batter into the greased cake mold.
• Add a layer of chopped apples on top of the batter.
• Sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon powder over the apples.
• Pour another layer of batter over the apples.
• Add another layer of chopped apples on top.

5. Bake the Cake:

• Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve:

• Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the mold for a few minutes.
• Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
• Optionally, sprinkle the top of the cake with additional sugar for added sweetness and crunch.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.

Cooking Tips:

• Batter Consistency: Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Add Texture: You can add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra texture and flavor.
• Apple Variety: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Apples: Provide vitamins, fiber, and natural sweetness, contributing to the cake’s nutritional value.
• Vegetable Oil and Milk: Help keep the cake moist without adding excessive calories.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave before serving if desired.
• Freezing: The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this cake accessible to all bakers.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a warm and comforting dessert.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to a sweet treat after dinner.
• Comforting and Familiar: The classic flavors of apple and cinnamon are universally loved and bring a sense of nostalgia.

Conclusion: This Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake is a simple yet flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just for yourself, it’s a cake that’s sure to please. The layers of apples combined with the warm cinnamon flavor create a delightful treat that’s both comforting and satisfying. Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
   • Yes, you can substitute pears or peaches for a different flavor profile.
2. How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom?
   • Toss the chopped apples in a bit of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps them stay suspended in the cake.
3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
   • Yes, but the texture will be denser. You can use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balance.
4. What type of apples work best for this cake?
   • A mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji works well.
5. How do I make the cake more moist?
   • You can add a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream to the batter for extra moisture.
6. Can I make this cake vegan?
   • Yes, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use plant-based milk and oil.
7. Can I add a glaze or frosting to this cake?
   • A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a cream cheese frosting would complement the flavors well.
8. Can I use cinnamon sugar instead of plain cinnamon?
   • Yes, cinnamon sugar will add a bit of extra sweetness and a nice crunch to the apple layers.
9. How do I store the cake to keep it fresh?
   • Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the cake.
10. Can I make this cake in advance?
    • Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. It keeps well and can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated.