Velvety Apple Custard Cake

A Velvety Apple Custard Cake is a luxurious dessert that combines the creamy richness of custard with the sweet, tender texture of baked apples. It’s a perfect treat for fall or any time you’re craving something comforting and elegant. Here’s how to make it:

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Velvety Apple Custard Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the cake:

• 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream

For the custard layer:

• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For garnish (optional):

• Powdered sugar
• Whipped cream
• Caramel sauce
• Cinnamon

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the apples:

1. Toss the thinly sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.

2. Make the cake batter:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk or cream, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

3. Assemble the cake:

1. Arrange a layer of apple slices evenly on the bottom of the prepared pan. Pour half of the cake batter over the apples, spreading it gently to cover.
2. Add another layer of apple slices, then pour the remaining batter over the top. Smooth the surface with a spatula.

4. Make the custard layer:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk or cream over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat.

5. Bake the cake:

1. Pour the custard evenly over the cake batter in the pan.
2. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Serve and garnish:

• Dust the top with powdered sugar, drizzle with caramel sauce, or add a dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
• Slice and serve at room temperature or slightly warm.

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Tips:

• Apple variety: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
• Make it ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch.

This Velvety Apple Custard Cake is a showstopper dessert that’s creamy, tender, and bursting with apple flavor. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in! 🍎🍂