Delicious Apple Cake with Orange Zest

This delightful apple cake features the refreshing twist of orange zest, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. The cake combines the juicy sweetness of apples with the tangy brightness of orange, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It's a simple recipe that yields a moist and fragrant cake, ideal for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. The use of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm spiciness that enhances the fruity notes, making this cake a true delight for the senses. The cake is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it an excellent choice for novice bakers or those short on time. Served warm, it's divine, but it remains flavorful and tender even when cooled. This cake also makes for a lovely treat to bring to gatherings, ensuring your dish will stand out among a spread of desserts. With a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that’s both comforting and captivating. Enjoy every bite of this cake with its soft, tender crumb and delicious aroma.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 g apples
250 g flour
200 g sugar
100 g butter
1 tsp baking powder
1 orange
3 eggs

Spices

Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Powdered sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 90 minutes (30 minutes prep time, 60 minutes cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a baking pan to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, combine all **dry ingredients**: flour and baking powder. Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor.
**Peel the apples** or leave them unpeeled for added texture, and cut them into small pieces. Toss the apple pieces with a couple of tablespoons of the dry mixture, coating them lightly.
In another bowl, beat the **eggs with sugar** until the mixture is light and fluffy. Melt the butter and gradually mix it into the egg mixture.
Finely grate the zest of an orange and add it to the egg mixture. Then, gently fold in the prepared apple pieces.
Slowly incorporate the **flour mixture** into the egg mixture. Stir gently until just combined. The batter should be thick, resembling the consistency of sour cream. If it feels too stiff, add a few tablespoons of milk to reach the desired consistency.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, until the cake is nicely golden and an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Ten minutes before the end of the baking time, sprinkle a combination of sugar and cinnamon over the top for a sweet, spicy crust.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with a bit of **powdered sugar** for an elegant finish.

Tips

Substitute white flour with whole wheat for a healthier version.
Use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Add a handful of raisins or nuts for extra texture.

Nutritions

Calories: Approx. 320 per serving
Protein: 4g
Fats: 12g
Carbs: 50g

Variations

For a vegan version, replace eggs with flaxseed meal.
Substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Add cloves for a unique winter spice flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pair with a hot cup of black tea or coffee for a relaxing afternoon treat.
Garnish with fresh orange slices for added citrus flavor.

Best Places

Sweet Spot Bakery - Known for their innovative desserts, including fruity cakes. Location: 123 Baker St, London, UK.
Apple Delight Café - Famous for apple-based desserts. Location: 56 Orchard Ave, New York, USA.
Café Zest - Offers a variety of citrus-infused pastries. Location: 789 Citrus Rd, Los Angeles, USA.
Tuscany Treats - Specializes in rustic Italian desserts. Location: Via Roma 12, Florence, Italy.
Cinnamon Street Café - Warm and cozy spot known for spiced desserts. Location: 34 Spice Ln, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Fruitful Bakery - Offers a creative take on classic fruit cakes. Location: 8 Fruity Blvd, Sydney, Australia.
Golden Apple Bistro - Gourmet desserts in an elegant setting. Location: 101 Apple St, Toronto, Canada.
Sunshine Citrus Café - Enjoy a sunny ambiance and zestful cakes. Location: 45 Solar Ave, Barcelona, Spain.
Harvest Bakes - Fresh, farm-to-table bakery focusing on natural ingredients. Location: 23 Farm Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
Nordic Sweets - A cozy place for trying Scandinavian-inspired baked goods. Location: 67 Fjord St, Oslo, Norway.