There’s something truly comforting about the combination of tender apples and creamy custard baked into a cake. Our Apple Custard Cake recipe brings together these classic flavors in a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving a cozy treat, this cake delivers warmth and sweetness in every bite.
We love how the custard seeps into the layers of spiced apples, creating a moist and flavorful texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that turns humble apples into a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients
To create our delicious Apple Custard Cake, we will need simple ingredients divided into three parts: cake batter, custard, and topping. Each component brings unique flavors and textures to this comforting dessert.
For the Cake Batter
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
For the Custard
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Cake Batter | Flour, baking powder, baking soda, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, yogurt |
| Custard | Milk, egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla |
| Topping | Apples, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, powdered sugar (optional) |
Using crisp apples like Granny Smith enhances the contrast between the tender cake and tart fruit topping, balancing the rich custard perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To create our Apple Custard Cake flawlessly, we need to assemble the right tools. Each piece of equipment plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance. Below is a detailed list of the essential kitchen equipment:
- Mixing Bowls: At least two medium-sized bowls to separate cake batter and custard.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: For creaming butter and sugar and whipping eggs, ensuring a smooth, airy batter.
- Whisk: To blend custard ingredients evenly and prevent lumps.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement ensures the cake’s consistency.
- 9-inch (23 cm) Round Cake Pan: A standard size perfect for even baking and proper custard setting.
- Parchment Paper: To line the cake pan for easy removal and cleanup.
- Peeler and Knife: Essential for peeling and slicing apples evenly.
- Spatula: To fold ingredients gently and scrape down the sides of bowls.
- Saucepan: For cooking the custard on the stove with controlled heat.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the cake evenly without condensation, preserving moisture.
- Sifter: To dust powdered sugar on top for a beautiful finish.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Separate batter and custard preparation |
| Electric Mixer | Cream butter, sugar, and whip eggs |
| Whisk | Blend custard ingredients smoothly |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise ingredient measurements |
| 9-inch Cake Pan | Even baking and custard setting |
| Parchment Paper | Prevent sticking, easy removal |
| Peeler and Knife | Peel and slice apples uniformly |
| Spatula | Gently fold and scrape batter |
| Saucepan | Cook custard with controlled heat |
| Cooling Rack | Cool cake evenly avoiding moisture buildup |
| Sifter | Dust powdered sugar for finishing touch |
Having these tools ready helps us create this Apple Custard Cake effortlessly while maintaining accuracy and texture integrity. Let’s ensure everything is at hand before starting to mix our delicious batter and silky custard.
Preparation
To create our Apple Custard Cake perfectly, we will carefully prepare each component step-by-step. Following precise methods ensures the cake’s balanced texture and rich flavors.
Preparing the Apples
- Select Crisp Apples
Choose 3 medium-sized apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their tartness and firm texture.
- Peel and Core
Peel the apples with a vegetable peeler and core them using a paring knife or apple corer.
- Slice Thinly
Cut the apples into thin, even slices—about 1/8 inch thick—to allow even cooking and softness without losing shape.
- Toss With Lemon Juice and Spices
In a bowl, combine the apple slices with:
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Toss well to coat evenly and prevent browning.
Making the Custard
- Gather Ingredients
We’ll need:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
- Whisk Egg Yolks
Gradually whisk the egg yolks into the dry mix until fully combined.
- Heat Milk and Temper Eggs
Heat whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
Slowly pour ½ cup of the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Cook Custard
Transfer the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with remaining milk.
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring continuously with a whisk until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Vanilla Extract
Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Cool Custard
Pour custard into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent skin, and refrigerate until ready to use.
Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and grease lightly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
Combine in a bowl:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, beat ½ cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time.
Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and blend well.
- Incorporate Yogurt
Stir in ½ cup yogurt or sour cream until combined.
- Combine with Dry Mix
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, folding gently with a spatula after each addition until fully incorporated.
| Step | Action | Ingredients Used |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients Mix | Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt | 1 ½ cups flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ¼ tsp salt |
| Wet Ingredients Mix | Cream butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla | ½ cup butter, 1 cup sugar, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla |
| Final Batter Mix | Fold dry mix into wet mix gradually | Yogurt or sour cream (½ cup) |
Our batter will be smooth and slightly thick, ready to layer with custard and apples for the perfect Apple Custard Cake.
Directions
Let’s bring together all the components step-by-step to create our Apple Custard Cake with perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Assembling the Cake
- Prepare the Cake Pan
Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly butter the sides to ensure easy removal.
- Layer the Cake Batter
Pour half of the prepared cake batter into the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly into an even layer covering the bottom completely.
- Add the Custard Layer
Gently spoon the cooled custard over the cake batter. Spread it smoothly ensuring the custard covers the batter uniformly without mixing.
- Arrange the Apple Topping
Place the thinly sliced, cinnamon-sugar tossed apples in a neat layer on top of the custard. Overlap slightly to cover the entire surface. The apples should glisten with the sugar and lemon juice mixture.
- Finish with Remaining Batter
Spread the rest of the cake batter carefully over the apples. Avoid disturbing the apple layer while smoothing the batter evenly.
“Layering with care keeps our Apple Custard Cake moist and ensures every bite bursts with creamy custard and tender apples.”
Baking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to reach the temperature before baking.
- Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the center rack. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Indicator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baking | 350°F (175°C) | 45-50 minutes | Golden top & clean toothpick test |
- Check Midway
At 25 minutes, briefly rotate the pan for even baking and continue until done.
Cooling and Setting
- Initial Cooling
Remove the cake from the oven and place on a cooling rack for 10 minutes. This helps the cake firm up slightly.
- Remove from Pan
Run a knife around the edges, then invert the cake onto a wire rack. Remove parchment paper carefully.
- Set Completely
Allow the cake to cool to room temperature. Cover lightly with foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the custard layer set perfectly.
- Serving Suggestion
Dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finish before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Apple Custard Cake experience we recommend serving it with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some ideas to enhance each bite and impress guests:
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a delicate sweetness and a visually appealing snowy finish.
- Serve slices warm or chilled. For a warm option reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to restore the cake’s softness and rich aroma.
- Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creamy coolness balances the tartness of the apples and the custard richness.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or a spoonful of local honey for extra indulgence.
- Garnish with toasted chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Accompany the dessert with a cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee to complement the cinnamon notes.
| Serving Element | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | Adds sweetness and enhances presentation | Sift lightly for even coverage |
| Warmth | Restores moist texture and aroma | Use low oven heat to avoid drying |
| Vanilla ice cream | Balances tartness with creamy coolness | Best served right after slicing |
| Caramel drizzle | Adds richness and a sweet contrast | Use moderate amount to avoid overpowering |
| Toasted nuts | Provides crunch and nuttiness | Toast lightly for enhanced flavor |
| Hot beverages | Complements aromatic spices | Spiced tea or coffee recommended |
“Our Apple Custard Cake shines brightest when served with simple yet flavorful accompaniments that balance its moist texture and rich notes.”
By applying these serving suggestions we create an inviting dessert presentation that highlights every bite’s harmony of tender apples, creamy custard, and moist cake layers.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Apple Custard Cake with minimal effort on the day of serving, we can prepare several components ahead of time. This approach enhances the flavors while allowing convenient assembly later.
Preparing the Cake Batter in Advance
We can mix the cake batter up to 24 hours before baking. After combining the wet and dry ingredients:
- Transfer the batter into the prepared 9-inch cake pan.
- Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store it in the refrigerator to keep the batter fresh.
This resting time allows the flavors to deepen and the batter to thicken slightly, resulting in a tender crumb.
Custard Preparation and Storage
The custard can be made up to 2 days in advance:
- Once cooked and thickened, cool it to room temperature.
- Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate until ready to use.
Bringing the custard to room temperature before assembling prevents the batter from curdling.
Apple Topping Make-Ahead
To keep the apple slices fresh and flavorful:
- Toss the peeled and sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon as directed.
- Place them in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
This marinating step enhances the aroma and softens the apples slightly without turning mushy.
Assembly and Baking Timeline
| Task | Make-Ahead Window | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cake Batter | Up to 24 hours ahead | Covered in cake pan in refrigerator | Bake directly from chilled batter |
| Custard | Up to 48 hours ahead | Covered in bowl with cling film, refrigerated | Bring to room temp before use |
| Apple Topping | Up to 24 hours ahead | Airtight container, refrigerated | Use crisp varieties for best texture |
| Final Assembly | On baking day | N/A | Bake immediately after assembly |
Tips for Best Results
- Always temper the custard before assembling by letting it warm slightly to avoid texture issues.
- If the batter firms too much in the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
- Avoid slicing apples too early if storing beyond 24 hours to maintain their crispness.
By following these make-ahead tips, we streamline the baking process and ensure the Apple Custard Cake remains moist, flavorful, and perfectly textured when served.
Conclusion
This Apple Custard Cake recipe brings together the best of both worlds—fruity freshness and creamy indulgence—in a simple yet impressive dessert. With just a few everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, we can create a cake that feels special for any occasion.
By preparing components ahead and following the layering technique, we ensure every bite is moist and flavorful. Whether served warm or chilled, this cake offers a comforting treat that’s sure to become a favorite in our dessert rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Apple Custard Cake different from other apple desserts?
Apple Custard Cake combines tender, crisp apples with rich, creamy custard layered inside a moist cake, creating a unique balance of flavors and textures unlike traditional apple pies or crisps.
Which apples work best for this cake?
Crisp and tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they provide a nice contrast to the sweet custard and moist cake layers.
Can I prepare the components in advance?
Yes, cake batter can be made up to 24 hours ahead, custard up to 48 hours, and apple topping up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to develop and saving time on baking day.
What kitchen tools do I need to make this cake?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a 9-inch cake pan, parchment paper, peeler, knife, spatula, saucepan, cooling rack, and a sifter for powdered sugar.
How long does it take to bake the Apple Custard Cake?
Bake the cake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, checking periodically to ensure it is cooked through and the top is golden.
Can I serve the cake warm or cold?
The Apple Custard Cake can be served warm or chilled, each offering a delightful taste experience. Warm slices highlight the custard’s creaminess, while chilled slices set the flavors nicely.
What toppings or accompaniments complement this dessert?
Dusting with powdered sugar, serving with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel sauce, honey drizzle, or toasted nuts enhances the flavors and presentation.
Is the recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, the recipe uses common ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for beginner bakers who want a delicious, impressive dessert.