Name: French Apple Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup All-purpose Flour; ½ cup and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, divided; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons rum (or 1 teaspoon rum extract); 2 Granny Smith Apples, peeled, cored and diced

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If you're looking for a super easy apple dessert to make, you should try this French Apple Cake! This one-bowl cake only takes about 5 minutes to mix up the batter, and its so buttery and amazing.

With it being the first week of September, that means one thing for me. Summer is over and its time to focus on fall desserts. A lot of people think of pumpkin when it comes to fall, but early fall is all about apples! And if you love apple picking, or just going and buying all the apples at the local farmers market like I do, you will need plenty of recipes to use these apples in.

Made with fresh apples and a light, buttery batter, it combines classic French flavors with a delicate texture. The apples soften as they bake, creating a moist, tender crumb that pairs well with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Unlike more complicated desserts, this French Apple Cake is easy to make, even for beginners. With just a few pantry staples and seasonal apples, you can whip up this treat in no time.

The golden, caramelized top adds a beautiful finish, making it an ideal apple dessert for dinner parties or family gatherings. Plus, it's versatile enough to serve with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Whether you're a fan of French cuisine or just love apple desserts, this French Apple Cake recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

French Apple Cake FAQ:

What type of apples should I use for One-Bowl French Apple Cake?
Answer: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best because they balance the sweetness of the cake. However, you can mix tart and sweet varieties like Golden Delicious for added flavor and texture.
Can I make French Apple Cake ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, French Apple Cake can be made a day ahead. Store it at room temperature, covered, for up to two days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 4 days, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze French Apple Cake?
Answer: Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How do I prevent the cake from being soggy?
Answer: To avoid a soggy cake, make sure to drain any excess moisture from the apples before adding them to the batter. You can also sprinkle the apples with a bit of flour to help absorb the moisture.
Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?
Answer: Absolutely! While traditional French Apple Cake is usually simple, adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom can give it a warm, cozy flavor that complements the apples.
Do I need to peel the apples for One-Bowl French Apple Cake?
Answer: While it's not strictly necessary to peel the apples, peeling them will give the cake a smoother texture. If you prefer a more rustic feel, you can leave the skins on.
Can I make One-Bowl French Apple Cake gluten-free?
Answer: Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute, and you may need to adjust the liquid slightly, depending on the blend.