The aroma of warm apples wafting through the air is simply irresistible, especially when it’s wrapped in a cozy dessert like Jamie Oliver's Apple Pie Cake. This delightful hybrid marries the beloved flavors of classic apple pie with the soft, tender texture of a scrumptious cake, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple steps, you can create this impressive dessert that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to whip up on a busy evening. I love serving it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, which transforms it into a comforting hug on a plate. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe and fill your kitchen with the heavenly scent of baked spices and apples? Let’s get started!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Irresistible Comfort: Every bite of Jamie Oliver's Apple Pie Cake is like a warm hug, combining apple pie's nostalgia with cake's fluffiness.
Simple Preparation: With just a few handy ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
Sweet Versatility: Feel free to swap in pears or add nuts for a unique twist!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a show-stopping dessert at gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake in advance and enjoy the simplicity of serving a well-loved dish anytime.
Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
• Sliced Apples – Use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best sweetness and moisture.
• Brown Sugar – Adds caramel-like sweetness; coconut sugar is a great healthier substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; feel free to substitute with almond extract, but use it sparingly.
• Lemon Juice – Balances sweetness and adds acidity; omitting it is fine but recommended for deeper flavor.
• Nutmeg – Offers warmth; you can switch to cinnamon if you prefer a milder spice.
For the Cake Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; opt for margarine if you're looking for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake batter; alternatives can work if you need a sugar substitute.
• Eggs – Contributes structure and moisture; replace with aquafaba for a vegan version.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure; consider gluten-free flour blends as a substitute.
• Baking Powder – Essential for a light texture; ensure it's fresh for optimal rise.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; use fine salt for even distribution.
• Milk – Adds moisture to the batter; almond or oat milk can make it dairy-free.
Optional Toppings
• Whipped Cream – A dollop adds a light and airy touch to the cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – Melts beautifully, making every bite indulgent!
• Caramel Sauce – Drizzle over the top for an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cake.
This Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, embodying the essence of comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies cravings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the environment is ideal for baking your Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake, allowing it to rise beautifully. While the oven preheats, gather your baking dish and other ingredients to streamline the process.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your sliced apples with brown sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and nutmeg. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes so the sugars can draw out the natural juices, creating a flavorful filling that adds moisture to your cake.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat these ingredients until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This step ensures a tender texture in your cake, setting a solid foundation for your dessert.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, one at a time. Mix well after each addition until fully incorporated. This process will enrich the batter and add moisture to your Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake, resulting in a wonderfully fluffy cake structure.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and egg mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps the cake light and airy.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Start by pouring half of the batter into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This layer acts as a base for the delicious apple filling that will follow, ensuring that every slice tastes delightful.
Step 7: Layer the Apples
Spoon the prepared apple mixture over the first layer of batter, spreading it out evenly. Make sure the apples are well distributed for consistent flavor throughout the cake. Finally, pour the remaining batter on top of the apples, gently spreading it to cover them and create a luscious layer of cake.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know your Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake is ready when it's golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it; baking times can vary depending on your oven's unique characteristics.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the cake to set and makes it easier to transfer. Then, carefully move it to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing flavors to meld and creating a delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the apple filling up to 24 hours ahead by tossing the sliced apples with brown sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and nutmeg, then refrigerate. Additionally, you can make the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain its quality. When you're ready to bake, pour half of the batter into your greased baking dish, layer the cold apple filling, and top with the remaining batter. Bake as directed, and enjoy a freshly baked dessert that’s just as delicious as if you made it all in one go!
How to Store and Freeze Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you want to extend its life, refrigerate the cake covered in plastic wrap or a container for up to a week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm slices in the microwave or oven at a low temperature until heated through for a delicious treat!
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience that beautifully complements the sweet warmth of your apple pie cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy richness, melting perfectly over the warm cake for a delightful contrast.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream brings airiness to the dessert, enhancing its comforting texture.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cake infuses a buttery sweetness, enhancing the rich apple flavors in every bite.
- Hot Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider is the perfect drink match, echoing the cake's flavors while providing a cozy vibe.
- Roasted Nuts: A sprinkle of roasted walnuts or pecans on top adds a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft cake.
- Ginger Tea: Subtle spices in ginger tea echo the cake's warm notes, making for a soothing pairing that adds a fragrant kick.
- Maple Syrup: For a twist, drizzle pure maple syrup over each slice for a deep, toasted sweetness that elevates the dessert experience.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar adds a touch of sweetness with a hint of spiciness, perfect for enhancing each bite.
Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake with these delightful variations!
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Pear Twist: Swap out apples for ripe pears for a unique and sweet flavor blend. The juicy pears will add a lovely softness that pairs beautifully with the cake.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple layer for an exciting texture variation. The crunchiness brings an appealing contrast to the moist cake, elevating its deliciousness!
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Spice it Up: Introducing fresh ginger will give your cake a zesty kick that perfectly complements the warm apples. You can even play with the spices; try omitting nutmeg for a more straightforward flavor profile.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a good-quality gluten-free flour blend. This tweak allows everyone to enjoy a slice of comfort without compromising on taste.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Go for coconut milk instead of regular milk, and use plant-based butter to create a dairy-free version. The coconut flavor will add a pleasant twist that enhances the cake's charm.
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Caramel Surprise: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple layer before pouring on the remaining batter. This addition will create pockets of sweetness, enriching the overall flavor.
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Syrupy Apples: Cook the apples with a bit of maple syrup to bolster the sweetness. This will also give the cake a lovely glaze as it bakes.
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Cinnamon Swirl: For a flavorful surprise, sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mixture between the apple layer and the batter. This makes for a delightful cinnamon burst with every bite!
By incorporating these variations, not only can you make every baking session uniquely yours, but you can also keep your family excited for more delicious treats. If you’re curious about similar delightful recipes, check out my Chocolate Zucchini Cake or even the festive Copycat Birthday Cake. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Expert Tips for Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake
- Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements are crucial for your cake's texture. Too much flour can lead to a dry, dense Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake.
- Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix until just combined to keep the batter airy. Over-mixing can result in a tough cake, so be gentle!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise. Stale ingredients can affect the cake's fluffiness.
- Check Doneness Early: Begin checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time; oven variances can affect baking.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for proper slicing. Serving too soon may cause it to fall apart.
Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples not only hold their shape well but also offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making your cake burst with flavor.
How should I store leftover apple pie cake?
To keep your Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake fresh, store it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to prolong its shelf life, refrigerate it in a container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to a week.
Can I freeze the apple pie cake?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your cake, first cut it into slices and then wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This method helps prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before warming it up for that freshly baked taste!
What should I do if my cake comes out dense?
No worries! If your cake turns out dense, it could be due to over-mixing the batter or adding too much flour. For next time, make sure to measure flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Also, mix the ingredients just until they’re combined. If you're unsure, check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
Is this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Sure! For a dairy-free option, you can substitute unsalted butter with margarine and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. Additionally, you can replace the eggs with aquafaba to make this cake vegan-friendly. Always double-check ingredients to accommodate individual dietary needs, particularly with allergies!
How can I tell when my cake is done baking?
Great question! Start checking your cake about 5 minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is done. Remember, every oven is different, so it’s good to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.
Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake: A Cozy Slice of Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples with brown sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and nutmeg. Toss until evenly coated.
- Allow the apple mixture to sit for about 10 minutes to draw out natural juices.
- In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Gradually add to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour half the batter into the dish, then layer with the apple mixture and top with remaining batter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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