Marcus Samuelsson's Apple Cake
Try this recipe for a delicious apple cake.
Try this recipe for a delicious apple cake.
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
- 2 large granny smith apples
- 2 tablespoons unseasoned bread crumbs (panko works just fine)
- 1 1/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour (160 grams)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (!00 grams)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (!00 grams)
- 4 tablespoons (i used salted) butter at room temperature (plus m
- 2/3 cup half& half (or use a mixer of whole milk and cream
- 2 teaspoons confectioners sugar (or more)
- Carbohydrate 8.98707583134921 g
- Cholesterol 27.2541666650098 mg
- Fat 0.899721666302151 g
- Fiber 1.51057504820824 g
- Protein 1.61995916529559 g
- Saturated Fat 0.32230208310634 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (83g)
- Sodium 30.7774999565067 mg
- Sugar 7.47650078314097 g
- Trans Fat 0.16209324998136 g
- Calories 47 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Grease a 9 inch round springform pan very generously with butter, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Thoroughly mix or sift together the flour and baking powder.
- Mix together the granulated and brown sugar and set aside.
- Peel and core the apples, then slice one apple into 16 wedges. Toss the apples with 1/3 cup of sugar mixture and the cinnamon.
- Dice the remaining apple. If the second apple is very large you can use all of it or measure out 1/2 cup chopped.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle, beat the butter and remaining brown sugar mixture until light, creamy and fluffy.
- Add the egg and mix just until blended, then reduce speed of mixer and add the vanilla.
- Add the flour mixture and the half & half alternately, stirring until well blended, then stir in the chopped apples.
- Pour batter in the pan and spread evenly.
- Arrange 14 apple slices around the outer edge of the pan and place the two remaining wedges in the center.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Remove from the oven to a wire rack to cool completely.
- When the cake is cool, dust it generously with powdered sugar (confectioners' sugar).
A Home Baker's Delight: Marcus Samuelsson's Apple Cake
As a busy mom, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. This apple cake, inspired by the renowned chef Marcus Samuelsson, fits the bill perfectly. It’s a simple recipe, yet the result is a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion – from a casual weeknight dessert to a more elegant gathering. The beautiful golden-brown color and the perfectly spiced apples make it a showstopper, and honestly, the ease of making it has made it a staple in my household.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking, and the addition of spices like cinnamon brings out the warm, comforting notes of the apples. The texture is a happy medium—not too dense, not too airy—just the right amount of moist and tender. I’ve even experimented with different types of apples, finding that a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp provides a delightful contrast in tartness and sweetness. The crumb topping adds a nice textural element, which I think is a crucial element that brings this cake to the next level, something that sets it apart.
The process itself is straightforward, something I greatly appreciate. There's no need for complicated techniques or obscure ingredients. Everything is readily available, and the steps are easy to follow, even for novice bakers. The most time-consuming part is preparing the apples, but even that is quite manageable. I often involve my kids in this part, teaching them basic kitchen skills while enjoying some quality time together. The aroma of cinnamon and apples baking fills the kitchen with a warm and inviting scent, creating a cozy atmosphere that always brightens my mood and also the mood of the house.
This apple cake has become a cherished part of our family's traditions. It's the perfect dessert to share with loved ones, and the joy on their faces when they take their first bite is always the best reward. It's more than just a recipe; it's a symbol of home, warmth, and the simple pleasure of baking.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of butter and oil.
- Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a truly decadent treat.
This recipe isn't just for special occasions; it's perfect for everyday enjoyment. The combination of sweet and tart apples, warm spices, and a tender crumb makes this apple cake a truly delightful dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try? I'm confident it will become a new favorite in your kitchen too.
