Best easy apple cake recipes ranked

Nothing puts an abundance of apples to good use like cake!

2 min read

June 5, 2024 - 2:55PM

Apple & cinnamon slice

Pairing oh-so-perfectly with butter and sugar, apple cakes are one of the most-loved baked desserts in Australia, and for good reason. Requiring few ingredients, using classic baking methods and suitable for any skill level, a good apple cake is sure to be met with happy faces at any morning tea or dinner party. To ensure you find the one that’s just right for you, we’ve ranked our top five apple cake recipes of all time.

5. Apple and Custard Cake

If you’re wanting to dress up a classic butter cake, look no further. Adding a layer of homemade custard and apples makes this a go-to for lunchboxes or taking to your next catch-up. And if apples aren’t in season, fear not; tinned apples will do just as well in this versatile recipe.

4. Apple Tea Cake

An absolute crowd-pleaser in any kitchen, this timeless classic is one of those heart and home-warming recipes that evokes cosy winter days thanks to its cinnamon-spiced apples and seriously moreish crumble layer. Enjoy on its own or with ice cream or cream.

3. Irish Apple Cake

Consider your next showstopping apple cake found. With a creamy, almost pastry-like batter and a hard sugar crust on top, this delicious cake ticks the boxes for being impressive and scrumptious at the same time. It also pairs perfectly with custard or cream, delish!

2. French Apple Cake

French apple cake

A go-to recipe when apples are in season, this moist and delicate cake can use milk or rum for its liquid components, meaning it can be a delicious morning tea option or a slightly more boozy and adult option for dinner parties. Cut through the liquor layer with vanilla ice cream, or serve while still warm.

1. Apple and cinnamon slice

Full disclosure: this recipe isn’t strictly a cake, but it’s the most popular apple recipe on taste.com.au so we reckon it certainly deserves its place in this baking hall of fame. With a cheat’s cakey base, this slice is an MVP when it comes to quick and easy sweet treats. With a prep time of just five minutes and a cooking time of 35, it’s no wonder a dessert that’s ready in well under an hour and tastes this good is so wildly popular.

Want the best results from your apple cake? Read our tips below

Why is my apple cake soggy?

Apples have a high moisture content, meaning getting the ratio of wet and dry ingredients right from the outset is seriously important. When apple cakes are soggy, cooking for a little longer on low heat can help dry the ingredients a little more without burning the cake.

Can I use eating apples for cooking?

Absolutely! Some of the most popular kinds of apples in Australia also work well in cooking. This includes Fuji, Granny Smith, Jonathan and Gala apples. The most important thing to consider when using eating apples for cooking is the sweetness level of each different kind of apple and how that might affect the overall taste of the end product.

How long will apple cake keep?

If stored in an airtight container, apple cakes and apple slices can last for around four to five days, but be warned: it might be impossible not to eat it all before then!

Other apple recipes you might like:

Originally published as Best easy apple cake recipes ranked