Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of tender apples, warm spices, and a moist, buttery cake, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that captures the essence of autumn with its warm, fragrant flavors. The cake is made with a base of ripe apples, flour, butter, sugar, and eggs, and seasoned with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples.

It’s a wonderfully moist, tender cake with a slightly crumbly texture, and the apples provide bursts of flavor throughout. This recipe showcases Oliver’s signature approach to creating accessible, flavorful dishes with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. It’s perfect for those new to baking or seasoned bakers looking for a straightforward, satisfying cake to share with family and friends.

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3-4 medium apples (any variety, though tart apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully)
• 200g all-purpose flour
• 100g butter (room temperature)
• 150g granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added texture and flavor)

This combination of ingredients ensures the cake is moist, flavorful, and rich without being overly sweet, striking a balance between the apples’ natural tartness and the cake’s delicate sweetness.

Equipment Needed

Here’s a list of the equipment you’ll need to make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake:

• Mixing bowls (for dry and wet ingredients)
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer (for easily creaming the butter and sugar)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (if you want to grate the apples for a finer texture, though chunks work too)
• 9-inch round cake pan (or a similar size, lined with parchment paper or greased)
• Spatula (to fold ingredients together)
• Oven (preheated to 180°C/350°F)
• Cooling rack (to allow the cake to cool properly once it’s out of the oven)

These tools make the process smoother, ensuring the ingredients are mixed properly and the cake bakes evenly.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake is an easy, enjoyable process that involves just a few steps:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the pan:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the apples:
   Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks or grate them for a finer texture. Set them aside.

3. Cream butter and sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.

4. Add eggs and vanilla:
   Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and combine.

5. Mix dry ingredients:
   In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.

6. Combine wet and dry ingredients:
   Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

7. Add apples and optional nuts:
   Gently fold in the prepared apples and any optional chopped nuts.

8. Transfer to the cake pan:
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

9. Bake the cake:
   Place the cake in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Cool and serve:
    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Once completely cooled, dust with powdered sugar (optional) and serve.

Expert Tips

• Apple Variety: While any apples can be used, choose a firm, tart variety like Granny Smith for a nice balance between sweetness and acidity.
• Texture Variation: Grating the apples instead of chopping them creates a finer texture and integrates them better into the cake, but chunks will provide more distinct bites of apple.
• Make it Healthier: Swap half of the butter for Greek yogurt to reduce fat content and add a bit of tanginess.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a fresh citrusy note or a handful of dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra depth of flavor.
• Check for Doneness: Since ovens can vary, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake is the epitome of comfort in a cake. With its rich, moist texture, bursting apple flavor, and inviting spices, it’s a wonderful dessert to share with loved ones.

Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced one, this recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s flexible enough to be adapted with various add-ins, making it a versatile treat for all occasions. Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy afternoons, or just because, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will make everyone ask for seconds.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake is a versatile and comforting dessert, perfect for any occasion. While the original recipe is fantastic, sometimes it’s fun to experiment and put a spin on it. Here are some easy and delicious variations to try:

1. Spiced Apple Cake: Add a warm touch by incorporating cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom into the batter. These spices complement the sweetness of the apples and bring a cozy, autumnal flavor to the cake. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking will also create a delicious caramelized crust.
2. Apple and Pear Cake: If you want to add more variety to your fruit base, mix in some pears with the apples. The subtle flavor of pears blends beautifully with the apples and adds extra moisture to the cake.
3. Caramel Apple Cake: For a richer, more indulgent dessert, drizzle some homemade caramel sauce over the cake before serving. You can make your own caramel sauce by gently heating sugar and butter together until it forms a thick, golden syrup.
4. Apple and Walnuts Cake: Adding chopped walnuts or pecans brings a nice crunch to the moist, tender cake. Walnuts also add an earthy, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the apples.
5. Gluten-Free Apple Cake: For those who are gluten intolerant, simply swap out the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may also want to add a little extra baking powder to ensure the cake rises properly.
6. Vegan Apple Cake: To make the cake vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs or chia seeds and use non-dairy milk, such as almond or oat milk. Replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative.
7. Apple Cake with Streusel Topping: A buttery streusel topping can add an irresistible crunch to the cake. Simply combine flour, butter, sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the top of the batter before baking. The streusel will create a golden, crumbly layer on top of the cake.

These variations are simple to implement and can elevate your version of Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake to new heights, whether you’re looking for a little extra spice, sweetness, or texture.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

After enjoying a slice (or two) of Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake, you’ll want to ensure it stays fresh for the next day or even longer. Here are some tips for storing your leftover apple cake to maintain its flavor and texture:

1. Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to eat the leftovers within a couple of days, it’s perfectly fine to store the cake at room temperature. Simply place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat.
2. Refrigeration: If you want to keep the cake for a longer period, refrigeration is the way to go. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container. Refrigerated apple cake can last for about 5 days. The cold will help preserve the moistness of the cake, though it might slightly alter the texture.
3. Freezing: To store apple cake for an extended period, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. When freezing individual slices, you can thaw them as needed. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to allow the cake to cool completely before freezing to prevent condensation from affecting the texture.
4. Reheating: To revive the cake, particularly if it has been refrigerated or frozen, you can gently warm it up. If it’s stored at room temperature, a few seconds in the microwave will do the trick. For refrigerated or frozen slices, a low heat in the oven (about 300°F for 10-15 minutes) will help restore its moist texture without drying it out.

What Goes Well With Apple Cake?

Apple cake is a wonderfully comforting dessert on its own, but pairing it with complementary flavors and textures can make it even more delightful. Here are some ideas for accompaniments that work perfectly with apple cake:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, rich flavor of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the soft, spiced cake. The coolness of the ice cream also helps balance the warmth of the baked apples.
2. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream, either sweetened or unsweetened, makes a simple yet luxurious topping. You can even add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the whipped cream for extra flavor.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a rich caramel sauce over the cake adds a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the apples. You can use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce for this indulgent touch.
4. Yogurt or Creme Fraiche: For a tangy contrast, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or creme fraiche adds a refreshing, slightly tart element that balances out the sweetness of the cake.
5. Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a nice crunch and earthy flavor to your dessert. The nutty textures pair well with the moist apple cake, giving each bite extra depth.
6. Tea or Coffee: A hot beverage, such as freshly brewed black tea, chai, or a strong coffee, makes an excellent accompaniment. The richness of coffee or the warmth of tea enhances the comforting feeling of enjoying a slice of apple cake.
7. Berries: Fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, add a bright and tart element to the dessert. They create a beautiful contrast in both flavor and color, adding a fresh, fruity finish.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake is a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this cake is sure to please everyone.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can savor the cake for days to come, and pairing it with the right accompaniments will elevate your experience. So, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a special treat to yourself, apple cake is always a great choice.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake Recipe?

The key ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s apple cake include apples, butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. You will also need a little bit of lemon zest and juice to add brightness and flavor to the cake.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Apple For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake?

Yes, you can use a variety of apples for this cake. While Jamie Oliver often recommends using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Gala, you can experiment with others such as Braeburn, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples for a slightly different taste and texture.

How Long Does It Take To Bake Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake?

The baking time for Jamie Oliver’s apple cake typically ranges from 40 to 45 minutes, depending on your oven. You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center-if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

What Size Baking Tin Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake?

Jamie Oliver suggests using a 20 cm (8-inch) round cake tin for this apple cake recipe. It’s important to grease and line the tin to prevent the cake from sticking and ensure even baking.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make the apple cake gluten-free by substituting the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may also need to adjust the texture by adding a little more baking powder or a binding agent like xanthan gum.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake Dairy-free?

To make Jamie Oliver’s apple cake dairy-free, simply replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or coconut oil. Additionally, you can use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk in place of regular milk if the recipe calls for it.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Jamie Oliver’s apple cake. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container.

The cake can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours.

Can I Add Other Fruits To Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake?

Absolutely!

You can add other fruits such as pears, berries, or even dried fruits like raisins or sultanas. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly if the added fruit increases the moisture content of the cake.

What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake?

Jamie Oliver’s apple cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat. It also pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, this apple cake can be made a day or two in advance. In fact, it often tastes better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh.