This Apple Honey Cake is a sweet treat packed with soft apples and drizzled with honey. It’s perfect for bringing fall flavors to your table!
The wonderful aroma while it bakes will have everyone coming into the kitchen. I love having a slice with my morning coffee—such a cozy start to the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend sweet-tart apples like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp for great flavor. If these aren’t available, you can use Granny Smith for a tart punch or Braeburn for sweetness.
Honey: Besides typical honey, you can use agave syrup for a vegan option. You can also use maple syrup, which will give a unique flavor, but it will change the sweetness level slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is important for this recipe so you can control the saltiness. If needed, you can substitute with coconut oil or a non-dairy butter for a dairy-free version.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives a nice sweetness, but you could use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Just remember, it may change the texture a bit.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Apples for This Cake?
Prepping apples correctly enhances the cake’s texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Go for firm apples—avoid soft ones that can turn mushy.
- Peel and core the apples first, then slice them thinly. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Layer the slices neatly at the bottom of the pan. This creates a beautiful presentation when you flip the cake over.
- Drizzle honey over the slices after arranging them. It helps start the caramelization process as the cake bakes.
Delicious Apple Honey Cake Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 3 large apples (preferably sweet-tart like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) honey, plus extra for glazing
- 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Apple Honey Cake should take about 15 minutes to prep and around 45-55 minutes to bake. Plan for a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including cooling time before serving. It’s a fantastic way to fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and please your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Cake Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8 or 9-inch round cake pan so the cake won’t stick once it’s baked.
2. Prepare the Apples:
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Arrange the apple slices neatly on the bottom of the prepared pan in a circular pattern. This not only looks pretty but ensures even caramelization!
3. Add the Honey:
In a small saucepan, gently warm 1/4 cup of honey until it’s runny but not boiling. Drizzle this honey over the arranged apples to give them a sweet treat and let it soak in a bit.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and the remaining 1/4 cup honey until the mixture is light and fluffy—it should feel airy and inviting!
5. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until well blended. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for a delicious aroma.
6. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to combine everything well. This step helps ensure even rising during baking.
7. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, alternately add the dry mixture and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined to keep the cake fluffy—no overmixing, please!
8. Pour the Batter:
Gently pour the batter over the honey-glazed apples in the pan, spreading it evenly. Take your time to ensure a nice, even layer.
9. Bake the Cake:
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
10. Cooling Time:
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This helps it firm up for easier flipping!
11. Drizzle with Honey:
While the cake is still warm, drizzle additional honey over the top for extra shine and sweetness. It really enhances the flavor!
12. Invert the Cake:
Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake, and then carefully invert it onto a serving plate so the apples are on top. This will create a beautiful presentation!
13. Dust and Serve:
If desired, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your dazzling Apple Honey Cake warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Enjoy every slice of this moist, fragrant treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp are great options, you can also use Granny Smith for tartness or Braeburn for a sweeter taste. Just make sure the apples are firm for the best texture in the cake.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Honey Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to let it come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just be sure to store it wrapped well at room temperature. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Honey?
If you don’t have honey, you can substitute with agave syrup or maple syrup. Keep in mind that using different sweeteners might slightly alter the flavor and sweetness level of the cake, but it should still turn out great!
