Delightful Apple Cake with Jam Glaze
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of this homemade Apple Cake with Jam Glaze, a perfect treat for any occasion. This moist and flavorful cake combines the natural sweetness of fresh apples with a luscious jam topping, creating a dessert that’s both rustic and elegant. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this delightful bake from scratch!
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs (room temperature for best results)
- 150 grams (about ¾ cup) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for a rich flavor)
- 100 grams (approximately 7 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
- 100 grams (about ½ cup) plain yogurt (full-fat for extra moisture)
- 240 grams (about 2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 10 grams (2 teaspoons) baking powder (ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise)
- 5 medium-sized apples (choose a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (to prevent browning and add a hint of tang)
- 3-4 tablespoons peach or apricot jam (for brushing, warmed slightly for easy spreading)
Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized pan
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Peeler and knife
- Pastry brush
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and a golden finish. If using, line your baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and cut the apples into large, bite-sized chunks. Toss them in a bowl with the lemon juice to keep them fresh and add a subtle zesty note. Set aside while you prepare the batter.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes pale and slightly frothy—about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air, making the cake light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and softened butter, continuing to mix until fully combined. Stir in the yogurt for added moisture and a tender crumb.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder to remove any lumps and ensure even distribution. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Layer the apple chunks over the batter, pressing them slightly into the mixture. Pour the remaining batter over the apples, smoothing the top with your spatula. The apples will peek through slightly, adding a beautiful texture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is a rich golden brown. The aroma of baked apples will fill your kitchen, signaling it’s almost ready!
- Add the Jam Glaze: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the peach or apricot jam until it becomes spreadable. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the top of the cake with the warm jam, allowing it to seep into the cracks and create a glossy finish.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps the jam set and makes cutting easier. Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Tips for Success
- Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple types—Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness—to find your perfect balance.
- Jam Options: While peach or apricot jam complements the apples beautifully, feel free to try raspberry or apple jelly for a twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm slightly before serving to revive the flavors.
- Freezing: This cake freezes well! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Variations
- Spiced Version: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds over the apples before adding the top layer of batter for a crunchy texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
This recipe yields about 9 servings. Each serving (based on the total recipe) contains approximately:
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 4g
(Note: Exact values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Apple Cake with Jam Glaze is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. The juicy apples, moist cake, and sweet-tart jam topping make every bite a delight. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an after-dinner treat, this recipe is versatile and sure to become a family favorite. Share it with loved ones or save a slice for yourself—either way, it’s a taste of home-baked goodness!
