Description
Mary Berry’s Apple and Almond Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert made with a buttery almond-flavored batter and thinly sliced apples. The cake has a soft, fluffy texture, with the almonds providing a slightly nutty crunch on top. This cake is a delightful twist on a classic apple cake and is ideal for showcasing the natural sweetness of apples.
Ingredients
- 150g butter (softened) – Adds richness and a moist crumb.
- 150g caster sugar – Sweetens the cake and balances the apple tartness.
- 3 large eggs – Provides structure and helps the cake rise.
- 150g self-raising flour – Gives the cake a light, airy texture.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
- 1 tsp almond extract – Adds a lovely almond flavor to the batter.
- 100g ground almonds – Enhances the almond flavor and gives a soft texture.
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced) – Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best results.
- 25g flaked almonds – Add a crunchy topping.
- 1–2 tbsp demerara sugar – Sprinkled on top for a golden, crispy finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Tin and Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20cm round cake tin and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together using an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy. This step takes about 3-4 minutes and helps create a soft, tender texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Almond Extract
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the almond extract to infuse the batter with almond flavor.
Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder, then fold them gently into the batter along with the ground almonds. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake light.
Step 5: Layer the Apples
Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake tin and spread it evenly. Arrange a layer of apple slices over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, spreading it evenly, and layer the rest of the apples on top.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the flaked almonds and demerara sugar over the top layer of apples for a golden, crunchy finish.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and the almonds lightly toasted.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of cream, custard, or ice cream.