Apple mascarpone cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of apples with the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese. This cake is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn, but it can be enjoyed year-round. With its soft texture and delicate sweetness, it’s the perfect treat for family gatherings, afternoon teas, or even as a special dessert for a holiday meal. Let’s dive into the recipe for this delicious apple mascarpone cake!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
- 250g mascarpone cheese (about 1 cup)
- 3 large eggs
- 200g all-purpose flour (about 1 2/3 cups)
- 150g granulated sugar (about 3/4 cup)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 100g unsalted butter, melted (about 1/2 cup)
- 50g milk (about 1/4 cup)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. If you prefer a softer texture, you can sauté the diced apples in a little butter and cinnamon for 5 minutes before adding them to the batter. This step will make them even more tender and flavorful. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, and milk until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a smooth batter forms.
Step 4: Fold in the Apples
- Gently fold the diced apples into the cake batter using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly touched.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve
- Once the cake has cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
- Slice and serve the cake on its own, or pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Success
- Apple variety: Different apple varieties can provide different flavors and textures. Tart apples like Granny Smith give a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake, while sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala add more natural sweetness.
- Moisture level: If the batter feels too thick, you can add an extra tablespoon of milk to achieve a smoother consistency.
- Make it your own: Add a handful of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) or a sprinkle of raisins or sultanas for added texture and flavor.
- Serving suggestion: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Apple mascarpone cake is a comforting, easy-to-make dessert that brings together the best of fall flavors in every bite. The combination of tender apples and creamy mascarpone cheese makes this cake moist and delicious, while the light spicing adds warmth and depth. Whether served at a family dinner, as a treat with coffee, or for a special occasion, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone.
Try making this apple mascarpone cake at home, and enjoy a slice of comforting sweetness with your loved ones!