Soft Apple Cake – Short & Crisp

A soft apple cake that’s both tender and crisp sounds like the perfect balance of textures! Here’s a simple recipe to make a Soft Apple Cake with a short, crisp finish:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or whole milk)

• 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples:

• Toss the diced apples with 1 tbsp of lemon juice and a pinch of sugar. Let them sit for a few minutes to release some moisture. This helps keep them from becoming too soggy in the batter.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter & Sugar:

• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

4. Add Eggs & Vanilla:

• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Then add the vanilla extract.

5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients & Buttermilk:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Fold in the Apples:

• Gently fold in the prepared apples. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

7. Bake:

• Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan or an 8-inch square pan. Sprinkle the top lightly with 1 tablespoon of sugar to help create a slight crispiness as it bakes.

• Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown.

8. Cool & Serve:

• Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

• For an extra crispy top, you can place it under the broiler for a minute or two (just watch it carefully).

9. Optional:

• Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an added touch!

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This cake will have a tender, soft interior with a slightly crisp exterior from the sugar on top. The apples add a juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the buttery flavor of the cake. Enjoy! Let me know if you need adjustments or other ideas.