French Apple Custard Cake: A Soft and Luscious Dessert

French Apple Custard Cake: A Soft and Luscious Dessert

Introduction

The French apple custard cake is a decadent dessert that beautifully combines the sweetness of apples with the creamy richness of custard. With its layers of tender apple slices and silky batter, this cake is a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or a comforting treat for a quiet evening at home. The recipe requires simple ingredients yet yields a dessert that is both elegant and satisfying. Whether dusted with powdered sugar or served with a dollop of cream, this cake promises to impress with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 3–4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Apples

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Place them in a bowl and set aside.

Making the Batter

2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round cake pan with butter or oil and line the bottom with parchment paper.
3. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, milk, heavy cream, and oil (or melted butter), and whisk until smooth.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
5. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until a smooth, lump-free batter forms.

Assembling and Baking

6. Layer the Apples: Arrange the apple slices evenly in the prepared cake pan, filling it nearly to the top.
7. Pour the Batter: Slowly pour the batter over the apple slices, ensuring it seeps into all the gaps and covers the apples entirely.
8. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooling and Serving

9. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
10. Garnish and Serve: Dust the cake with powdered sugar for a classic look. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Conclusion

The French apple custard cake is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, offering the soft sweetness of apples and the creamy richness of custard in every bite. Its golden, caramelized crust and tender interior make it a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a family treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite. Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of French baking in your own kitchen!