As the warm aroma of baked apples and cinnamon fills the kitchen, it’s hard not to smile at the thought of this delightful Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake. If you've ever craved a comforting dessert that beautifully merges the essence of apple pie with the soft texture of cake, then this recipe is your new go-to. What I love most about this Apple Pie Cake is that it not only takes just over an hour to prepare—making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights—but it’s also an instant crowd-pleaser. Picture a golden-brown layer of cake generously holding tender, spiced apples; it’s a treat that often keeps them coming back for seconds. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of homemade joy? Are you ready to bake your way to sweetness?
Why is This Apple Pie Cake Unique?
Homemade Bliss: This recipe brings the joy of a warm, homemade dessert straight to your kitchen, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Irresistible Flavor: With the perfect blend of spiced apples, butter, and brown sugar, each bite of this cake sings with a delightful sweetness that rivals any bakery treat.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just over an hour, this Apple Pie Cake fits seamlessly into your busy schedule—ideal for when you want a comforting dessert without a fuss.
Versatile Delight: Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or as a tasty breakfast treat, this cake is incredibly adaptable, making it a favorite for all occasions.
Satisfies a Crowd: With 12 delicious servings, it’s a dessert that promises to please everyone, ensuring your loved ones will be asking for the recipe!
Apple Pie Cake Ingredients
• Get ready to create magic!
For the Cake Batter
- 4 cups sliced apples – fresh apples provide the best flavor; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonders.
- 1 cup brown sugar – adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the apple flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a splash of vanilla elevates the overall taste beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the apples, balancing the sweetness and preventing browning.
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg – infuses a warm, aromatic hint that complements the apples perfectly.
- 1 cup softened butter – ensures a rich, moist cake with a lovely crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the cake while giving it a lovely texture.
- 2 large eggs – binds the batter for a fluffy consistency.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – forms the foundation of the cake, ensuring it holds everything together.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cake rise to achieve that delightful fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – brings warmth and aromatic flavor, reminiscent of classic apple pie.
- ½ teaspoon salt – balances flavors and enhances the overall sweetness.
- 1 cup milk – keeps the batter moist, resulting in a soft texture.
Enjoy making this scrumptious Apple Pie Cake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Pie Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Apple Pie Cake starts baking at just the right temperature for a perfectly golden-brown crust. Meanwhile, gather your ingredients and have a 9x13-inch baking dish ready to go.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups of sliced apples, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of nutmeg. Toss everything together until the apples are nicely coated, then set the bowl aside. The mixture will soak in the flavors while you prepare the cake batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer for 3-5 minutes. You want this mixture to become light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air and gives your Apple Pie Cake a wonderful texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Next, add the 2 large eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. This step is crucial for binding the ingredients together, resulting in a moist and cohesive cake.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This combination of dry ingredients will help create the foundation of your Apple Pie Cake, giving it structure and flavor.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cake batter to be smooth and fluffy.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Grease your prepared 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour half of the cake batter into the dish, spreading it into an even layer. Next, layer the apple mixture directly on top of the batter, ensuring an even spread of those delicious, spiced apples, then pour the remaining cake batter over the apples.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. The top of your Apple Pie Cake should be a lovely golden brown when it's ready.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. The flavors of the Apple Pie Cake will deepen as it cools, making each slice an irresistible treat to share.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Pie Cake
Room Temperature: Allow the cake to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Fridge: For up to a week, store the Apple Pie Cake in the fridge in an airtight container to keep it fresh and moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake
As the tantalizing scent of this cake wafts through your home, let’s create a delightful spread that complements each sweet, spiced slice.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cake, creating a perfect harmony of temperatures.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the richness of the cake while adding a lovely, airy texture.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce brings a luscious sweetness, making every bite a decadent experience.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar adds a delightful crunch and bursts of flavors that echo the cake’s spices.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or blueberries bring a refreshing tartness, balancing the sweetness of the cake and adding vibrant color to the plate.
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Hot Tea or Coffee: Sipping a warm cup of tea or coffee alongside your slice amplifies the comforting ambiance, perfect for a cozy gathering.
Pair these delightful accompaniments with your Apple Pie Cake, and watch your loved ones savor each moment!
Apple Pie Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and play with flavors in this delightful Apple Pie Cake recipe!
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a cake that everyone can enjoy. Just ensure it has a good binding agent, like xanthan gum, for the right texture.
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Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter. You won’t miss the dairy, but the cake will still be wonderfully moist!
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Add Nuts: For extra crunch and flavor, fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. They add delightful texture and pair beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
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Mix in Berries: Try adding a cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the apple layer for a twist of flavor. This adds a tartness that brightens every bite, making it even more special.
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Spiced Up: Increase the warmth by adding ½ teaspoon of ground ginger or cardamom to the dry ingredients. Each slice will offer a delightful, spiced aroma, perfect for cozy gatherings.
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mix of 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon on top for a sweet, crunchy crust. This little touch elevates the visual appeal, too!
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Caramel Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle with homemade caramel sauce or store-bought for a decadent touch. It transforms the cake into a stunning showstopper perfect for special occasions.
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Sugar-Free: Swap the brown and granulated sugars with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol for a lower-calorie version that doesn't skimp on taste.
Each of these variations opens up a new world of flavor while retaining the warm, heartwarming essence of your Apple Pie Cake. Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Pie Cake preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can slice and mix the apples with the brown sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and nutmeg up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the mixture to keep it fresh and prevent browning. Additionally, you can combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you're ready to bake, simply cream the butter and sugar, add the eggs, and mix everything together with the apple and dry ingredient mixtures. This way, you’ll achieve that same deliciousness with significantly less cooking effort when it’s time to serve!
Expert Tips for Apple Pie Cake
• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they hold their shape well and balance the sweetness.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until blended. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy Apple Pie Cake.
• Adjust Sugar Levels: Depending on your apple variety, you may want to adjust the brown sugar. Tasting the apple mixture before baking helps achieve the perfect sweetness.
• Check for Doneness Early: Begin checking your Apple Pie Cake at around 40 minutes to prevent overbaking. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center.
• Serve Warm: This cake is best enjoyed warm, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance its flavors.
• Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly.
Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for this Apple Pie Cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. These varieties hold their shape well during baking and provide a delicious tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
How should I store leftover Apple Pie Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. At room temperature, it can be stored for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong its life, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I freeze Apple Pie Cake?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This will help prevent freezer burn. The Apple Pie Cake slices can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand!
How can I reheat the frozen slices of Apple Pie Cake?
To enjoy those scrumptious frozen slices, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator or leave them to come to room temperature. When you're ready to savor a piece, pop it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds—just enough to warm it through without drying it out.
What can I do if my Apple Pie Cake is too dense?
If you find your cake is overly dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to mix just until the ingredients are combined, and consider checking for doneness a bit earlier to prevent a dry texture. Keeping a gentle touch during baking will yield a lovely, fluffy cake!
Is this Apple Pie Cake safe for pets?
While apples in moderation are generally safe for pets, keep in mind that this cake contains sugar and butter, which aren't suitable for them. It's best to enjoy this delightful dessert yourself and not share it with your furry friends.
Delicious Apple Pie Cake That Will Steal Your Heart
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter
- 4 cups sliced apples fresh apples provide the best flavor; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonders.
- 1 cup brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the apple flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract a splash of vanilla elevates the overall taste beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens the apples, balancing sweetness and preventing browning.
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg infuses a warm, aromatic hint that complements the apples perfectly.
- 1 cup softened butter ensures a rich, moist cake with a lovely crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar sweetens the cake while giving it a lovely texture.
- 2 large eggs binds the batter for a fluffy consistency.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour forms the foundation of the cake, ensuring it holds everything together.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder helps the cake rise to achieve that delightful fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon brings warmth and aromatic flavor, reminiscent of classic apple pie.
- ½ teaspoon salt balances flavors and enhances the overall sweetness.
- 1 cup milk keeps the batter moist, resulting in a soft texture.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Pie Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and have a 9x13-inch baking dish ready.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and nutmeg. Toss until coated, then set aside.
- In another mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer for 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, stirring just until combined.
- Grease your prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cake batter into the dish, spreading it evenly. Layer the apple mixture on top of the batter, then pour the remaining cake batter over the apples.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out clean when the cake is ready.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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