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Close-up image of a slice of Irish apple cake with creamy custard being poured over the top. The cake has a golden crust and soft, fluffy interior, served on a speckled plate.

Irish Apple Cake

4.63 from 8 votes
This Irish apple cake is moist, sweet, and topped with a delightful crunchy layer, perfect served warm with custard or cold with cream.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Chill Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Irish
Calories: 273

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cake flour For a light and fluffy texture
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent
  • teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
  • teaspoon ground cloves Adds warmth and depth
  • teaspoon nutmeg For a hint of spice
  • 4 ounces butter Cold cut into small pieces
  • ¾ cup sugar For sweetness
  • 4 large Granny Smith apples Peeled cored and cut into 1-2" pieces
  • 2 large eggs Room temperature
  • ¼ cup milk For moisture
  • 2 tablespoons sugar To sprinkle on top for crunch

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9-inch round baking pan by greasing with butter or oil.
  2. Sift the cake flour, baking powder, salt, cloves, and nutmeg into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Cut the butter into the dry mixture and rub it in with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the texture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
  4. Add the sugar and mix it into the flour-butter mixture.
  5. Peel and slice the apples into 1-2" pieces.
  6. Toss the apple pieces into the flour mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.
  7. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add a dash of milk. Stir this mixture into the apples and flour until fully combined. Add more milk if the mixture feels too thick. The mixture should be quite sticky.
  8. Transfer the mixture into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly with the back of a spoon.
  9. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar over the top of the cake to create a crunchy, golden topping.
  10. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 273kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 5gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 51mgSodium: 178mgPotassium: 93mgFiber: 2gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 281IUCalcium: 51mgIron: 1mg

Notes

A traditional Irish treat, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day! Serve warm with custard or chilled with cream for an irresistible dessert experience.

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