Rustic Apple Pie Cake – A Cozy Classic
Introduction
Few desserts capture comfort like a homemade apple pie cake. With a buttery, tender dough and layers of fresh apples, this recipe is simple yet full of flavor. The combination of sweet apples, warm vanilla, and a golden crust makes it perfect for family gatherings, Sunday afternoons, or holiday tables.
Ingredients
For the Dough
300g (2 cups) all‑purpose flour
30g (2 tbsp) sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla sugar (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
150g (⅔ cup) cold butter, cubed
1 large egg
For the Filling (suggested)
4–5 medium apples, peeled and sliced
2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp lemon juice (to keep apples fresh)
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and vanilla sugar. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and knead gently until a smooth dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice apples. Toss with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Step 3: Assemble
Roll out two‑thirds of the dough and press into a greased 9‑inch cake pan. Spread apple mixture evenly over the base. Roll out remaining dough and place on top, or create a lattice pattern for a rustic look.
Step 4: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Tips & Tricks
Butter tip: Keep butter cold for a flaky crust.
Apple choice: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balance.
Extra flavor: Add raisins or chopped walnuts to the filling.
Glaze idea: Brush top with apricot jam for shine.
Variations
Crumble Topping: Replace top crust with streusel.
Spiced Version: Add nutmeg or cardamom to apples.
Mini Pies: Make individual servings in muffin tins.
Festive Flair: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Pair with hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Slice thinly for brunch buffets.
Wrap slices for gifting.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, freeze baked pie up to 2 months. Reheat in oven before serving.
Q: Can I use puff pastry instead of dough?
Absolutely—it makes a lighter, flakier version.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Final Thoughts
This Rustic Apple Pie Cake is buttery, fruity, and wonderfully nostalgic. With its simple dough and fresh apple filling, it’s a recipe you’ll want to bake again and again.