Vanilla Custard Apple Cake Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful, moist dessert that’s not only delicious but also a bit unique, this Vanilla Custard Apple Cake should be your next baking project. The combination of smooth custard and the natural sweetness of apples makes for a light yet indulgent treat. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea, a family gathering, or just a sweet way to end a meal.
Ingredients:
2 eggs
¼ cup sugar (60 g)
1.5 tablespoons cornstarch (30 g)
1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 medium apple (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
1 cup all-purpose flour (120 g)
½ teaspoon baking powder
A pinch of salt
Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a small saucepan, whisk together the 2 eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Place the saucepan over medium heat, and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a custard consistency. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set the custard aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round or square cake pan (9-inch is ideal) to ensure that your cake doesn’t stick after baking.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Add the sugar and whisk until the mixture is light and creamy. Gently fold in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out to cover the bottom. Next, pour the custard mixture evenly over the batter, followed by a layer of thinly sliced apple pieces. Top the apples with the remaining cake batter, spreading it gently to cover the fruit.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the cake starts to brown too quickly on top, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked through.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle it with a simple glaze for extra sweetness, though it’s delicious on its own as well.
Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Custard Apple Cake:
Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor, choose a variety of apple that holds its shape when baked. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work particularly well in this cake.
Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, it may taste even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together.
Custard Consistency: Be sure to cook the custard mixture gently over medium heat, as high heat can cause the eggs to scramble, ruining the texture. If the custard seems too runny, cook it a little longer until it thickens to the right consistency.
Add Spices for Extra Flavor: While this recipe keeps things simple with vanilla, you can add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter or the custard for a warm, spiced twist.
Why You’ll Love This Cake:
This Vanilla Custard Apple Cake is the perfect balance of rich custard and soft, fluffy cake. The apples bring a natural sweetness and moisture to the dessert, and the creamy custard layer adds a luxurious texture that makes every bite melt in your mouth. It’s a crowd-pleaser, simple enough for beginner bakers, but impressive enough to serve for a special occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake will quickly become a favorite.
FAQs:
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes! While apples are a great choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits like pears, peaches, or even berries. Just make sure the fruit you choose holds up well during baking.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you use is suitable for baking cakes for the best results.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for longer shelf life (up to 5 days).
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
This Vanilla Custard Apple Cake is an easy-to-make, yet incredibly satisfying dessert that combines simple ingredients with a touch of elegance. Perfect for every occasion, it’s bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
This recipe includes a clear, step-by-step guide to making a Vanilla Custard Apple Cake. With attention to key baking techniques and tips for perfect results, you’ll be able to create a cake that’s both delicious and visually appealing, impressing friends and family alike. Happy baking!