Kerry Apple Cake: A Delightful Dessert for Any Occasion
When looking for a delightful dessert that brings a touch of European charm and simplicity, the Kerry Apple Cake is the perfect choice. Inspired by a St. Patrick’s Day luncheon, this apple cake is both easy to make and irresistibly delicious, capturing the essence of traditional Irish baking with a modern twist. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a family meal, this cake is sure to be a hit!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour – This will provide the cake with a light, fluffy texture.
- 1 1/4 cups sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly without overwhelming the apple flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
- 4 large eggs – Provides structure and helps the cake rise.
- 1 to 2 cooking apples, peeled and sliced – Adds a fruity, tart contrast to the sweet cake.
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and develops a beautiful golden-brown crust.
-
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of softened butter with 1 1/4 cups of sugar. Using an electric mixer or a wooden spoon, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.
-
Incorporate the Eggs: Add the 4 large eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, one at a time. Beat well after each addition to fully incorporate each egg into the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth batter.
-
Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will impart a subtle but pleasant flavor to the cake.
-
Fold in the Flour: Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of self-rising flour to the mixture. Gently fold it in until just combined, being careful not to over-mix. Over-mixing can result in a dense cake.
-
Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. For extra assurance that your cake will not stick, line the pan with parchment paper after greasing. This will also make removing the cake from the pan easier.
-
Arrange the Apples: Peel and slice the cooking apples. Arrange the apple slices in neat rows on top of the batter in the prepared pan. The apples will soften and infuse the cake with their flavor as it bakes.
-
Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown.
-
Cool and Finish: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, sprinkle with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and elegance.
-
Serve: For an extra special treat, serve slices of the Kerry Apple Cake with a dollop of whipped cream. This pairing adds a delightful creaminess that complements the tender apple slices.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 302.6 per serving
- Fat: 17.2 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10.3 grams
- Cholesterol: 111.2 milligrams
- Sodium: 330.9 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 34.2 grams
- Fiber: 0.7 grams
- Sugar: 22.2 grams
- Protein: 3.8 grams
This Kerry Apple Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight with its apple-topped surface. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want to enjoy a slice of European-inspired dessert. Enjoy the simple pleasures of this easy-to-make cake and savor the flavors of tradition with every bite! 🍏🍰🍂
