Rich in tradition and bursting with flavor, Irish Apple Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert that feels like home in every bite. Imagine tender chunks of spiced apples nestled in a moist, buttery cake with a golden, sugar-dusted crust that adds just the right amount of crunch—this is the kind of treat that brings people together.
Perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings, this cake tells a story of rustic baking at its finest. Served warm with a drizzle of custard or a dollop of cream, it transforms into an indulgence that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re savoring it with family or sharing it with friends, this classic Irish recipe is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
So, let’s whip up this hearty and flavorful cake and bring a touch of Irish tradition to your table—it’s simple, satisfying, and absolutely unforgettable!
Irish Apple Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (2-3)
- 9-inch springform pan
- Sieve for straining custard
- Whisk and silicone spatula
- Saucepan for custard
Ingredients
custard sauce
- 6 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1½ tsp vanilla
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1½ cups whole milk
cake
- confectioner’s sugar for dusting
- 3 tbsp whole milk or cream
- 1 tsp baking powder
- about 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced.
- ½ cup unsalted butter at room temperature
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅛ tsp salt
streusel topping
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup old fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 6 tbsp unsalted cold butter, cut in small pieces
Instructions
- Simmer milk over medium heat.
- Whisk yolks and sugar, then slowly combine with hot milk while stirring.
- Return to heat, cook until thickened but not pudding-like.
- Stir in vanilla, strain, and chill with plastic wrap on the surface.
- Blend butter, flour, sugar, and oats until crumbly and refrigerate.
- Cream butter and sugar, beat in eggs one at a time.
- Mix flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt; fold into wet mixture with milk or cream.
- Spoon batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan.
- Top with sliced apples in an even layer and sprinkle with streusel.
- Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool, dust with confectioner’s sugar, and serve with custard sauce.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure a light, tender cake.
- Chill the custard sauce thoroughly for the best consistency and flavor.
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 372.87kcal |
| Total Fat | 17.7g |
| Carbohydrates | 49.8g |
| Protein | 4.66g |
Tips To Elevate The Taste Of Irish Apple Cake!
- Caramelize the Apples: Lightly sauté the apple slices in butter, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of brown sugar before adding them to the cake. This adds depth and a caramelized flavor.
- Add Nuts to the Streusel: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel topping for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Use High-Quality Vanilla: Enhance the custard sauce with premium vanilla extract or paste for a richer and more aromatic taste.
- Incorporate Citrus Zest: Add a touch of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy contrast to the warm spices.