This Easy Lemon Apple Cake is a delightful combination of tangy lemon and sweet, tender apples. With its moist crumb and zesty flavor, this cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. The apricot glaze adds a glossy finish and a touch of sweetness, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 40 minutes
Total Time
- 55 minutes
Servings
- 8–10 slices
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 pinch of sea salt (about 1/8 teaspoon )
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar (50g / 1.8 oz )
- Grated zest of 1 large lemon
- Juice of 1 large lemon (approximately 3 tablespoons / 45ml )
- 50 grams unsalted butter (3.5 tablespoons / 1.8 oz ), melted and slightly cooled
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (35g / 1.2 oz )
- 1 packet baking powder (2 teaspoons / 8g )
- 4 medium apples (approximately 600g / 1.3 lbs ), preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
For Glazing:
- 3–4 tablespoons apricot jam
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F / Gas Mark 4) .
- Line a 20cm (8-inch) round baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides with butter to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Create the Base Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the pinch of salt .
- Using an electric whisk or hand whisk, beat the eggs vigorously for 2–3 minutes until they become frothy.
- Gradually add the sugar , continuing to whisk for another 3–4 minutes , until the mixture becomes pale yellow and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add Flavor Elements
- Grate the lemon zest directly into the egg mixture, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith.
- Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the slightly cooled melted butter . Whisk gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
- Sift the flour and baking powder together into the wet ingredients.
- Gradually fold them in using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until the flour is incorporated—avoid overworking the batter to prevent a tough texture.
Step 5: Prepare the Apples
- Wash the apples thoroughly and remove the cores using an apple corer or sharp knife.
- Slice the apples into thin strips, approximately 3mm thick .
- Toss the apple slices with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice immediately to prevent oxidation and browning.
Step 6: Combine and Bake
- Gently fold the prepared apple slices into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Glaze the Cake
- While the cake is still warm, heat the apricot jam in a small saucepan over low heat or microwave for 15–20 seconds until it becomes liquid.
- Brush the warm apricot jam evenly over the surface of the cake to create a glossy glaze.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes , then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Pro Tips
- Apple Varieties: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor or sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp for a milder taste.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days .
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month . Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Glaze Alternatives: Substitute apricot jam with honey or a simple powdered sugar glaze for a different finish.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, based on 10 servings)
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fats: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Lemon Apple Cake is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. The bright, zesty notes of lemon complement the natural sweetness of the apples, while the soft, tender crumb makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family treat or a special occasion, this cake is sure to impress with its rustic charm and delicious taste.
Ready to bake a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and oh-so-easy? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor a dessert that’s as comforting as it is beautiful—it’s pure lemon-apple goodness in every slice!
