Imagine sinking your fork into a warm, golden-brown apple cake that transports you straight to the rolling green hills of Ireland! This Cast Iron Irish Apple Cake is not just a dessert—it's a culinary journey that combines simple ingredients with traditional cooking techniques. With its crispy edges, tender center, and bursts of fresh apple in every bite, this cake will become your new go-to comfort food that's guaranteed to impress family and friends.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups apples, peeled and sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while preheating to warm it up.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Carefully remove the hot cast iron skillet from the oven and generously butter the bottom and sides to prevent sticking.
- Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Gently fold in the peeled and sliced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared hot cast iron skillet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
- Carefully run a knife around the edges of the cake and invert onto a serving plate. If desired, dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream.
- Slice and serve warm, enjoying the rustic charm of this traditional Irish apple cake.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Preheat the Cast Iron Skillet: Warming the skillet before adding batter ensures a crispy, golden bottom crust.
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep the cake tender and light.
- Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test—it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Let the Cake Rest: Allowing the cake to cool in the skillet for 10-15 minutes helps it set and makes removing easier.
- Serve Warm: This cake is best enjoyed slightly warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
