This Vanilla Custard Apple Cake is a delicate and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. The combination of soft vanilla sponge cake, creamy custard, and sweet apple slices creates a moist, flavorful, and visually stunning cake. This recipe is simple to follow and yields a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
the Custard Filling:
- 2 cups (500ml) whole milk
- 1/3 cup (70g) granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Apple Topping:
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a smooth custard (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Cover the custard with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool completely.
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Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 3: Prepare the Apples
Toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan.
Spread an even layer of cooled custard over the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter over the custard, spreading gently to cover it.
Arrange the cinnamon-sugar apple slices on top of the batter in a decorative pattern.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake (not the custard layer) comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve
Dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful finish.
Slice and enjoy this moist, creamy, and fruity delight!
Tips for Perfect Vanilla Custard Apple Cake
Custard Consistency: Ensure the custard is thickened properly before using it in the cake to prevent it from being too runny.
Apple Varieties: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness, or sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp if you prefer.
Layering: Be gentle when spreading the batter over the custard to avoid mixing the layers.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customizations: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or ground ginger to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for extra warmth and spice.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes