Name: Mary Berry Devonshire Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 225g self-raising flour – Provides the structure and helps the cake rise.; 1 tsp baking powder – Adds a bit of extra lift.; 175g caster sugar – Sweetens the cake and balances the tartness of the apples.; 100g butter (softened) – Adds moisture and richness to the cake.; 2 large eggs – Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients.; 2-3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced) – Use tart apples like Granny Smith or cooking apples for the best flavor.; 1 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, spicy flavor that complements the apples.; 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the cake’s sweetness and flavor.; 2-3 tbsp milk – To adjust the batter consistency.; Extra sugar for sprinkling – Adds a slight crunch to the top.

Description

Mary Berry’s Devonshire Apple Cake is a traditional British cake that combines fresh apples with a tender, spiced batter. This simple yet elegant cake is easy to make and is designed to showcase the natural sweetness and tartness of the apples. It’s a great choice for afternoon tea, dessert, or a cozy snack, and pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

Scale

225g self-raising flour – Provides the structure and helps the cake rise.
1 tsp baking powder – Adds a bit of extra lift.
175g caster sugar – Sweetens the cake and balances the tartness of the apples.
100g butter (softened) – Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
2 large eggs – Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients.
2–3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced) – Use tart apples like Granny Smith or cooking apples for the best flavor.
1 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, spicy flavor that complements the apples.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the cake’s sweetness and flavor.
2–3 tbsp milk – To adjust the batter consistency.
Extra sugar for sprinkling – Adds a slight crunch to the top.

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 takes about 2-3 minutes and helps create a tender texture.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Add this mixture to the wet ingredients and fold gently until just combined.

Step 5: Add the Apples

Fold the diced apples into the batter, distributing them evenly. The apples will add moisture and texture to the cake as it bakes.

Step 6: Adjust Batter Consistency

If the batter is too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of milk to reach a smooth, spoonable consistency. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Transfer to Cake Tin and Sprinkle with Sugar

Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle a bit of extra sugar on top for a crunchy finish.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and the cake should feel firm to the touch.

Step 9: 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 cream, custard, or ice cream for a delicious dessert.