Irish Apple Cake Recipe: A Delicious Taste of Ireland in Every Bite
If you’re looking for a comforting and traditional dessert that’s easy to make, Irish Apple Cake is the perfect choice. This classic Irish treat is a delightful combination of tender cake, sweet apples, and a hint of spice, all topped with a crunchy sugar crust. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a cozy dessert, this Irish Apple Cake recipe will transport you to the Emerald Isle with every bite. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make this iconic dessert and share tips to ensure it turns out perfectly.
What is Irish Apple Cake?
Irish Apple Cake, also known as Apple Tart or Apple Pie in some parts of Ireland, is a rustic dessert that’s been enjoyed for generations. Unlike American-style apple cakes, this version is less sweet and features a dense, buttery cake base studded with chunks of fresh apples. The cake is often flavored with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and it’s typically topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, and apples.
- Easy to Make: No fancy techniques or equipment required—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- Versatile: Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of custard.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, family gathering, or afternoon tea, this cake is always a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Irish Apple Cake:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Bramley work well), peeled, cored, and chopped
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cold butter, cubed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Step 3: Add the Apples
Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter. The batter will be thick, but that’s normal!
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this over the cake batter, then dot the top with the cubed butter.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the cake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with whipped cream, ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips for the Perfect Irish Apple Cake
- Use Tart Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Bramley balance the sweetness of the cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake tender.
- Add a Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day
Irish Apple Cake is a staple in Irish households, especially during tancapbet celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day. Its simplicity and comforting flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s a wonderful way to incorporate a touch of Irish tradition into your festivities.
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Final Thoughts
This Irish Apple Cake recipe is a timeless dessert that’s sure to tancapbet become a favorite in your home. With its tender crumb, juicy apples, and warm spices, it’s a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Irish heritage or simply looking for a delicious dessert, this cake is a must-try.
So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a slice of Ireland with this delightful Irish Apple Cake!