Layer Cake with Apples combines the sweetness of apples with the moistness of a classic cake. This recipe features layers of apple-flavored cake with a hint of cinnamon and a simple apple filling, making it perfect for a dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups peeled, finely chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Additional ground cinnamon for flavor or decoration
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the finely chopped apples.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until well combined.
- Add 2 tablespoons of milk or cream and the vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy, adding more milk or cream if needed to reach the desired consistency.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- If the cakes have domed on top, level them with a knife or cake leveler.
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of the cooled apple filling evenly over the cake.
- Place the second cake layer on top of the apple filling.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the prepared frosting. Decorate with additional ground cinnamon if desired.
6. Serve:
- Allow the cake to set for about 30 minutes before slicing.
- Serve at room temperature and enjoy!
Optional Additions:
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for extra texture.
- Glaze: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Spices: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or allspice in the cake or filling.
This apple layer cake is a delightful dessert with layers of flavor and a perfect balance of sweetness and spice!
