Irish Apple Cake Recipe

Introduction to Irish Apple Cake

Irish Apple Cake is a classic dessert that embodies the rustic charm and wholesome flavors of Ireland. This delightful cake features tender slices of apple nestled within a moist and lightly spiced cake batter, creating a comforting treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.

History of Irish Apple Cake

Irish Apple Cake has deep roots in traditional Irish baking, reflecting the country's rich culinary heritage. It emerged as a popular dessert in rural Irish households, where apples were abundant and often used in seasonal baking. The simplicity of the recipe, with basic pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and apples, made it a beloved staple for families throughout Ireland.

The cake's history is intertwined with Irish farm life, where apples harvested from orchards were transformed into delicious treats enjoyed by all. Over time, variations of the recipe emerged, with some households adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.

Today, Irish Apple Cake continues to hold a special place in Irish cuisine, cherished for its comforting taste and nostalgic appeal. It's often served warm with a dollop of fresh cream or custard, embodying the essence of homemade goodness and hospitality that defines Irish baking traditions.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

Pinch of salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1/4 cup milk

2 large cooking apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced

1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Confectioners' sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until a smooth batter forms.

Spread half of the batter into the prepared cake pan.

Arrange the sliced apples evenly over the batter in the pan.

Spoon the remaining batter over the apples, spreading it out gently with a spatula.

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar over the top of the cake batter.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with confectioners' sugar for a finishing touch.

Irish Apple Cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature, and it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This dessert is a lovely way to celebrate the flavors of Ireland with its rustic charm and sweet apple goodness.

I hope you enjoy trying out this Irish Apple Cake recipe! If you have any other dessert ideas or questions, feel free to let me know. Happy baking!

Read More