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There’s something truly enchanting about the scent of baked apples wafting through the kitchen, a delightful reminder of cozy evenings spent with family. Inspired by rustic Irish traditions, this Traditional Irish Apple Cake, also known as Kerry Cake, weaves together the tartness of fresh Granny Smith apples, a medley of warm spices, and a delicate sugar crust that beckons you to take a slice.

But what sets this cake apart is the warm custard sauce that elegantly drapes over each piece, adding a rich, velvety texture that elevates every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress at a family gathering or seeking a comforting dessert after a long day, this recipe will undoubtedly become a cherished favorite. Not only is it simple to prepare, but its heartwarming flavors also make it a perfect tribute to the beloved art of Irish home cooking. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing masterpiece!

Why is this Irish Apple Cake irresistible?

Comforting warmth: This cake delivers the cozy vibes of homemade goodness, perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings.
Rich flavor: The blend of tart Granny Smith apples and aromatic spices creates a harmonious taste that dances on your palate.
Easily customizable: Feel free to experiment with variations, such as adding raisins or switching to a vegan custard.
Simplistic preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delightful dessert effortlessly.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for tea time or a holiday feast, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Pair this cake with a comforting warm beverage and you have the perfect treat for any occasion!

Irish Apple Cake Ingredients

Get ready to bake this delightful dessert!

For the Cake

Cake Flour – Provides structure and lightness; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal leavening.
Salt – Enhances flavor balance; use kosher salt for a more subtle taste.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness; can substitute with pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
Nutmeg – Offers a slight bitterness that complements the cake; freshly grated yields better flavor.
Cloves – Provides aromatic richness; ground allspice can substitute in a pinch.
Salted Butter – Adds flavor and moisture; unsalted butter may be used; add a pinch of salt.
Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to browning; brown sugar can enhance flavor depth.
Eggs – Build structure and moisture; substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
Granny Smith Apples – Tartness and firmness ideal for baking; can use Bramley apples if available.
Whole Milk – Moisture and richness; substitute with buttermilk for added tang.
Sugar (for topping) – Forms a light crust; can substitute with coarse sugar for texture.

For the Custard Sauce

Egg Yolks – Base for custard sauce; contributes creaminess; use silken tofu for a vegan custard.
Sugar (for custard) – Sweetens the custard; adjust quantity to taste.
Whole Milk (for custard) – Creates a rich sauce; dairy-free milk can be used for vegan custard.
Vanilla – Adds flavor depth; omit in traditional versions but can enhance the custard.

How to Make Irish Apple Cake

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prep a springform pan by greasing it lightly to ensure easy cake release.
Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; give it a gentle stir to evenly distribute the spices and set aside for later use.
Cut in butter: Take your cold salted butter and cut it into small pieces. Add it to the flour mixture, using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs, with a few larger pieces adding some texture.
Combine sugars and apples: Stir in the sugar, then fold in the diced Granny Smith apples, ensuring they are evenly coated for a deliciously tart flavor throughout the cake.
Prepare the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until well combined. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, creating a thick batter.
Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, sprinkle the top with sugar for a delightful crust, and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Make the custard: For the custard, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar in a saucepan. Gradually add warmed milk while stirring, then cook over low heat until it lightly coats the back of a spoon. Stir in vanilla if desired and allow it to cool slightly.

Optional: Serve warm with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Irish Apple Cake

Choose Fresh Apples: Use fresh Granny Smith apples for the best flavor and texture; avoid mealy apples which can ruin the cake’s structure.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature to help the batter combine smoothly and yield a tender cake.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light texture you desire for the Irish Apple Cake.
Custard Consistency: Cook the custard over low heat to prevent scrambling; patience is key to achieving that silky finish.
Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool before slicing; it firms up and improves in flavor overnight, making it even more delicious.
Serving Ideas: Pair with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts for an extra touch of warmth and texture, enhancing your Irish Apple Cake experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Traditional Irish Apple Cakes are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance—just mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Additionally, the custard sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead; simply cool it, transfer it to an airtight container, and refrigerate. To maintain that delightful fresh taste, consider reheating the custard gently on the stove before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, pour the batter into your springform pan, sprinkle with sugar, and bake. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a comforting dessert with minimal effort that’s just as delicious!

What to Serve with Irish Apple Cake?

The perfect meal deserves a delightful ensemble to elevate it even further and create beautiful memories around the table.

Warm Custard Sauce: The traditional pairing enhances every slice, adding luscious creaminess and a touch of sweetness, making each bite pure bliss.
Spiced Chai Tea: A fragrant spiced chai balances the cake’s sweetness, and its warm spices create a comforting harmony that feels like a warm embrace.
Cinnamon Ice Cream: Creamy and rich, this indulgence adds a cool contrast to the warm cake, while the cinnamon notes echo the dessert’s heartwarming flavors.
Roasted Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts bring a satisfying crunch and nutty goodness. They also enrich the dessert experience with an extra layer of texture.
Coffee or Espresso: Savory coffee balances the sweetness of the cake, making this a wonderful pairing, especially for afternoon tea or as a post-dinner delight.
Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries introduces a burst of freshness, brightening the palate and adding a touch of acidity that complements the apple’s sweetness beautifully.

When you gather friends and family to share this cake, these accompaniments will add to the warmth and joy of the occasion, creating unforgettable moments together.

How to Store and Freeze Irish Apple Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while preserving its delightful texture.

Fridge: To extend freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The cool temperature can enhance the flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the cooled Irish Apple Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating: To rewarm, simply pop slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or enjoy at room temperature. Serve with warmed custard for an extra touch of comfort!

Irish Apple Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with this beloved recipe! Customizing allows you to explore new flavors and textures.

Nuts & Fruits: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch, or throw in some raisins for added sweetness. Both will enhance the texture beautifully.
Brown Sugar: Swap out white sugar for brown sugar to deepen the cake’s flavor. This simple change adds a cozy, caramel-like note to your dessert.
Buttermilk Twist: Use buttermilk instead of whole milk for a tangy twist that complements the apples. The extra acidity also helps create a tender crumb.
Vegan Option: For a vegan Irish Apple Cake, replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture and use dairy-free milk alternatives. It’s just as delicious without any animal products!
Custard Enhancement: Infuse the custard with a splash of Irish cream liqueur for an adult twist. This decadent addition brings an extra layer of richness that pairs beautifully with the cake.
Ice Cream Delight: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert experience that melts in your mouth.
Spice Variety: If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute traditional spices with pumpkin spice for a seasonal variation that’s perfect for autumn gatherings.
Chocolate Drizzle: Want to indulge a bit more? Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cake before serving for a luxurious touch that perfectly complements the apples.

Irish Apple Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the Irish Apple Cake?
Absolutely! For the perfect Irish Apple Cake, I recommend using Granny Smith apples due to their tartness and firmness, which hold up beautifully during baking. If you can find Bramley apples, they are also a fantastic choice for their sweetness and moisture. Avoid mealy apples, as they can compromise the cake’s texture.

How should I store my leftover Irish Apple Cake?
To keep your Irish Apple Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigeration is a great option; just make sure it’s sealed well—this way, it will stay delicious for up to 5 days!

Can I freeze Irish Apple Cake, and how?
Yes! For freezing, allow your cake to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds to restore its delightful warmth.

What should I do if my cake is too dry?
If you find your Irish Apple Cake is too dry, it could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To troubleshoot, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately, and keep an eye on the baking time—always check for doneness with a toothpick. If the cake is dry, you can serve it with extra warm custard, which adds moisture and flavor!

Is this Irish Apple Cake suitable for vegans?
Very! You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by substituting eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal and 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg), and using plant-based milk and silken tofu for the custard. This way, everyone can enjoy the comforting flavors of Irish Apple Cake!

How do I know if my custard is cooked properly?
To ensure your custard is perfectly cooked, keep the heat low and stir continuously. The custard is done when it lightly coats the back of a spoon—this usually takes about 10-15 minutes of gently cooking. If you notice any lumps, don’t hesitate! Just strain it through a fine-mesh sieve for a silky finish.

These FAQs should help guide you on your delightful baking journey, ensuring your Irish Apple Cake turns out beautifully every time!