The aroma of warm spices mingling with sweet apples wafts through the air as you anticipate the first bite of the Irish Apple Cake. You can practically taste the buttery goodness melting on your tongue while the cinnamon dances in delight. Each slice promises to deliver a comforting embrace wrapped in nostalgia, making it a perfect treat for any gathering.
Remember that time at Grandmaβs house when she pulled this cake out of the oven? The entire family gathered around it like moths to a flame. That unforgettable moment continues to linger long after the last crumb has disappeared. Whether itβs a Sunday dinner or a rainy afternoon tea, this cake never fails to create cherished memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Irish Apple Cake is incredibly easy to whip up with simple ingredients
- Its rich flavor profile combines sweet and tart notes from fresh apples creating an irresistible taste
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and tender crumb, it looks stunning on any table
- Itβs versatile enough to serve warm with cream or cold as a snack anytime
I remember my cousin declaring this cake βthe best thing since sliced breadβ after her first biteβshe might have been right!
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flour: Use all-purpose flour for a light texture; sift it for best results.
- Baking Powder: Make sure itβs fresh; itβs essential for that lovely rise.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth; feel free to add extra if youβre feeling spicy.
- Brown Sugar: Opt for light brown sugar which brings caramel notes that perfectly complement the apples.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for control over saltiness; it also enhances flavor.
- Eggs: Large eggs help bind everything together and add richness.
- Apples: Granny Smith apples work wonderfully; their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Milk: Whole milk keeps the batter moist and adds creaminess.
- Sour Cream: Adds moisture and richness while keeping things tender.
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting): A light sprinkle before serving adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter. Set aside your trusty mixing bowl because things are about to get delicious.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and brown sugar until they blend harmoniously like a well-rehearsed choir.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat softened butter with more sugar until fluffyβthis step guarantees an airy texture thatβll have you dreaming of clouds.
Add Eggs: Crack those eggs into your mixture and blend them until fully integrated; you want them singing in harmony with the other flavors.
Add Apples: Peel and chop your Granny Smith apples into small chunks before folding them gently into the batterβthis step ensures every bite bursts with apple goodness.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add your dry mix into the wet ingredients while pouring in milk and sour cream. Stir gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing or things could get tough.
Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out cleanβyour kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!
Let it cool slightly before dusting powdered sugar on top for that picture-perfect finish!
Serve warm with whipped cream or enjoy it plainβthe choice is yours!
You Must Know
- Irish Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that balances sweetness and spice
- The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist
- Itβs perfect for family gatherings and pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best Irish Apple Cake, start by prepping your ingredients. Peel and slice your apples first, then mix the dry ingredients while the oven preheats to 350Β°F (175Β°C). This sequence ensures everything is ready when you need it.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for some crunch. You can also substitute some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for added flavor and richness. Experimenting is half the fun!
Storing & Reheating
Store your Irish Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for about a week. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp; they hold their shape better during baking
- Remember not to overmix; this helps keep your cake light and fluffy
- Lastly, let it cool completely before slicing to avoid a crumbly mess!
The first time I made Irish Apple Cake, my house smelled so heavenly that my neighbors knocked on my door asking what I was baking! It was a delightful day filled with sweet treats and laughter.
FAQ
What kind of apples are best for Irish Apple Cake?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best due to their texture.
Can I freeze Irish Apple Cake?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.
How can I make my cake more flavorful?
Adding spices like nutmeg or ginger enhances the flavor profile beautifully.

Irish Apple Cake
- Author: Sofia
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Irish Apple Cake is a delightful blend of tender apples and warm spices, creating a fluffy dessert perfect for gatherings or cozy afternoons.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and mix well.
- Fold in chopped apples into the wet mixture.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture, adding milk and sour cream until just mixed.
- Pour batter into the pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Add walnuts or pecans for extra texture. Substitute some all-purpose flour with almond flour for added richness. Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results.