Mary Berry Devonshire Apple Cake
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.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 35
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- 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.
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.