This Rustic Caramelized Apple Cake is a celebration of simplicity and seasonal flavor. With tender chunks of fresh apple nestled into a moist, cinnamon-scented batter, it’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug. Baked in a glass dish for that homey, old-fashioned charm, the cake develops a golden crust while staying soft and fluffy inside—thanks to the natural moisture of the apples and a touch of oil.
Perfect for tea time, brunch, or dessert, this cake is versatile and forgiving. It requires no fancy equipment, no frosting, and no fuss—just honest ingredients and a bit of love. The apples caramelize slightly on top during baking, creating a rustic finish that’s both beautiful and delicious. Serve it warm with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or simply dusted with powdered sugar. It’s the kind of cake that disappears quickly, especially when shared with loved ones.
🧺 INGREDIENTS: (Serves 8–10)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup neutral oil (canola, sunflower, or melted butter)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 2 medium apples, peeled and chopped (plus extra slices for topping)
- Optional:
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to toss with apples)
- Powdered sugar or whipped cream for serving
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prep the Apples Peel and chop the apples into small cubes. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning and set aside. If using extra apple slices for topping, keep them separate.
- Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a square 8×8-inch glass baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend gives the cake its warm, spiced backbone.
- Combine Wet Ingredients In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with both sugars until light and creamy. Add oil, vanilla, and yogurt (or sour cream), and mix until smooth.
- Bring It Together Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples and nuts if using. The batter will be thick and fragrant.
- Pour & Top Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Arrange a few apple slices on top for a rustic finish—they’ll caramelize beautifully during baking.
- Bake to Perfection Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly crisp, while the inside remains moist.
- Cool & Serve Let the cake cool in the dish for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
🍂 Variations & Tips:
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add ½ tsp xanthan gum.
- Keto Adaptation: Swap flour for almond flour, sugars for erythritol, and yogurt for Greek yogurt.
- Add-ins: Raisins, dates, or shredded coconut add texture and sweetness.
- Storage: Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can be frozen in slices for up to 2 months.
