Embrace the warmth of home baking with this irresistible Soft  Apple  Cake – a perfect blend of tender crumb, sweet apples, and delicate spices that will fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma and your heart with joy.

Ingredients

• 3 whole eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 cup (170g) granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (100ml) seed oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 2 cups (240g) 00 flour
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1 packet (16g) baking powder
• 3 medium apples

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour a 22-24 cm (8-9 inch) diameter cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light, pale, and frothy (about 3-4 minutes).
3. While continuing to mix, slowly stream in the seed oil and milk, ensuring they are well incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon (if using), and baking powder.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Peel and dice two apples. Gently fold these diced apples into the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
8. Peel and slice the third apple into thin, decorative slices. Arrange these slices on top of the batter.
9. Sprinkle brown sugar over the apple slices for a caramelized finish.
10. Bake for 40-45 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
12. Transfer to a serving dish and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 12g
• Sugar: 20g

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8-10 servings

Cooking Tips and Tricks

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter
• Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
• Don’t overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb
• Ensure even apple distribution by tossing diced apples in a little flour
• Let the cake cool completely for clean, neat slices

Variations and Substitutions

• Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans
• Substitute some flour with almond flour
• Use different spices like nutmeg or cardamom
• Replace seed oil with melted butter for a richer flavor
• Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries
• Make it gluten-free with a 1:1 gluten-free  flour blend

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this  cake in advance? Yes, the cake stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q2: Can I freeze this apple cake? Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q3: What’s the best way to store the cake? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

Q4: Can I use different types of apples? Yes, but choose firm apples that hold their shape during baking.

Q5: Is this cake good for breakfast? Definitely! It’s a perfect breakfast or brunch companion.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store at room temperature for 3-4 days
• Cover with plastic wrap or in an airtight container
• Refrigerate if keeping longer than 4 days
• Bring to room temperature before serving
• Can be made a day ahead
• Tastes even better the next day as flavors meld

Enjoy this comforting Soft Apple Cake – a slice of pure, homemade happiness!