French Apple Cake with Dark Rum

 

Ingredients

 

• • 3 large apples (about 1 lb or 450 g), peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar

 

• • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

• • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup dark rum
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

 

• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Directions

1. 1. Preheat the Oven:
      Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray.

 

1. 1. Prepare the Apples:
      Peel and core the apples, then chop them into 1/2-inch pieces. Set them aside.
   2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
      In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
   3. Make the Cake Batter:
      In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla extract, and dark rum. Stir in the melted butter until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. The batter will be thick.

 

1. 1. Combine with Apples:
      Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter until evenly distributed.
   2. Bake the Cake:
      Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   3. Cool and Serve:
      Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired.

 

1. Serve and Enjoy:
   Slice the cake and serve it as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a rich dessert.

 

• • Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra warming touch.
  • Top with a few fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.

 

• Enjoy with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a small glass of dark rum to complement the flavors.

Cooking Tips

• • Use a mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor.

 

• • If you prefer a stronger rum flavor, increase the amount of rum slightly, but be mindful not to overpower the apples.
  • If you don’t have dark rum, you can substitute it with bourbon or brandy for a similar flavor profile.
  • Make sure to peel the apples to avoid chewy skin after baking.

 

• Let the cake cool before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, promoting digestive health and boosting immunity.

 

• Dark rum contains antioxidants, though the alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind the rich flavors.
• This cake is a great way to enjoy seasonal apples while indulging in a comforting dessert.

Dietary Information

 

• • Vegetarian
  • Contains gluten
  • Contains dairy (can be adapted with dairy-free butter and eggs)

 

• Contains alcohol (rum is cooked off but leaves flavor)

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate)

• • Calories: 280

 

• • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g

 

• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 25g

Storage

 

• • Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • The cake can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

 

• Reheat slices in the microwave for a warm dessert or serve at room temperature.