French Apple Cake

Prep: 10 mins

Cook: 40 mins

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 8 Servings

This traditional French cake is the definition of simplicity. It starts with a rum-based cake batter, which is then loaded up with sweet apple chunks to ensure every bite includes a bite of apple goodness. If you need an easy recipe to ease you into the world of baking, this is the cake for you. There are no fancy tools, techniques, or ingredients required — if you’ve got a whisk and a mixing bowl, you’re ready to get started. Enjoy it as an afternoon snack with tea or serve it for dessert at your next gathering with friends.

Ingredients

Cooking spray or butter, for coating the pan
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
3 medium apples, such as Jonagold, Pink Lady, Honeycrisp or Fuji, or a mix
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon fine salt
2 large eggs, at room temperature
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup spiced rum
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Powdered sugar, for serving

Instructions

Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 350ºF. Meanwhile, coat an 8-inch round cake pan with cooking spray or butter, then line the bottom with a parchment paper round. Melt 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter. Peel, core, and dice 3 apples.
Whisk 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon fine salt together in a medium bowl.
Whisk 2 large eggs in a large bowl until fluffy. Add the melted butter, 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/4 cup spiced rum, and 1 teaspoon vanilla, and whisk to combine. Add the flour mixture and stir with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until just combined. Add the apples and fold until just combined. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 40 minutes. Let cool for 15 minutes before carefully removing from pan (loosen the sides by running a thin knife around the edge if needed first). Dust with powdered sugar and serve.