Description
Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Cake is a traditional British cake made with fresh apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a moist sponge. The apples give the cake a lovely texture and flavor, while the cinnamon adds warmth. Often served with a dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is ideal for autumn or any time you’re in the mood for a comforting apple dessert.
Ingredients
- 225g (2 cups) Self-Raising Flour: Provides structure and helps the cake rise.
- 1 tsp Baking Powder: Ensures a light texture.
- 175g (3/4 cup) Unsalted Butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture.
- 175g (3/4 cup) Caster Sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the tartness of the apples.
- 2 Large Eggs: Binds the ingredients and provides structure.
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor.
- 2–3 Medium Apples (peeled, cored, and diced): Adds sweetness, moisture, and texture.
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon (optional): Adds warmth and complements the apples.
- 2 tbsp Demerara Sugar (for topping, optional): Add a crunchy, caramelized topping.
Instructions
Step 1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and ground cinnamon (if using).
Step 3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer or whisk.
Step 4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Step 6. Fold in the Apples
Fold the diced apples into the batter until they are evenly distributed.
Step 7. Pour the Batter and Add the Topping
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle the Demerara sugar over the top for a crunchy, caramelized finish.
Step 8. Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Step 9. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or custard, if desired.