Few desserts evoke as much warmth and nostalgia as apple pie. The scent of cinnamon-spiced apples baking in the oven conjures memories of cozy family dinners, festive celebrations, and comforting treats on chilly days. But while traditional apple pie is beloved worldwide, it can sometimes feel intimidating or time-consuming to prepare, especially for busy home cooks looking for easy desserts apple lovers will enjoy.
That’s where Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie Cake recipe comes in — an inspired take on the classic that combines all the beloved flavors of apple pie into a simple, moist, and fluffy cake. This ingenious dessert offers the sweet, tender, cinnamon-infused apples you crave, nestled inside a golden cake that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat. It’s quickly become a favorite in many households and a standout among the best new recipes for desserts.
Whether you’re planning family dinner desserts, searching for an apple pie easy recipe, or want a delicious way to use fresh apples, this recipe delivers in every way.
Why Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie Cake is a Must-Try Sweet Apple Pie Cake
Jamie Oliver’s take on apple pie simplifies the baking process without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s the perfect marriage of a traditional apple pie’s comforting spices and the ease of a quick cake, ideal for cooks of all skill levels. Here’s why it stands out:
- Simplicity: No rolling pastry or fiddly crust to prepare. The entire dessert is made with basic pantry ingredients and fresh apples.
- Time-efficient: From prep to oven in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for quick baking on weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Flavorful layers: Fresh apple slices, sweet apple pie filling, cinnamon, and warm spices create layers of flavor in every bite.
- Versatility: It works beautifully as a casual family treat or dressed up for holidays and special occasions.
- Impressive presentation: The caramelized apple slices on top create an inviting, rustic look that’s sure to wow.
If you’re looking for the perfect apple pie filling cake that’s accessible and delicious, this recipe is an excellent addition to your dessert arsenal.
The Story Behind the Recipe
Jamie Oliver, a champion of simple, fresh, and delicious cooking, wanted to bring the heartwarming flavor of apple pie to everyone without the stress or fuss of traditional baking. His apple pie cake delivers the cozy nostalgia of the classic dessert in a more modern, approachable form. It embraces the idea that great food should be straightforward, comforting, and shared with loved ones — a true hallmark of Jamie’s philosophy.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need for the Best Apple Pie Cake
The beauty of this recipe is in its use of wholesome, everyday ingredients combined thoughtfully for maximum flavor and texture:
Las manzanas
Choose fresh, firm apples with a good balance of tartness and sweetness. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for baking because they hold their shape well and provide a lovely tart contrast to the sweet cake. Other great options include Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Jonagold.
Flour and Leavening
All-purpose flour is the base of the cake batter, while baking powder ensures a light and fluffy crumb.
Butter and Sugar
Softened butter creamed with sugar adds richness, moisture, and tenderness to the cake.
Los huevos
Eggs bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s structure.
Especias
Ground cinnamon is essential for the classic apple pie flavor. A pinch of mixed spice or nutmeg enhances warmth and depth.
Dairy
Milk or yogurt is folded in to add moisture and create a soft, tender crumb.
Apple Pie Filling or Compote
Adding apple pie filling or apple compote inside the batter introduces bursts of sweet, juicy apples, giving the cake a wonderful texture contrast.
Toppings
Brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional chopped nuts or raisins sprinkled on top create a caramelized, crunchy finish.
Detailed Step-by-Step Method: Making Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Equipment and Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a round cake tin (8 or 9 inches) with parchment paper for easy removal.
Peel, core, and thinly slice 3-4 medium apples. The thinner the slices, the better they’ll soften and caramelize during baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon mixed spice. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spices.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream 115g (½ cup) softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar until pale and fluffy — about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. This incorporates air and helps create a light cake.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Dairy
Beat in two large eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully combined. Then add ½ cup whole milk or plain yogurt, mixing gently until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Fold gently to avoid knocking out air but ensure all flour is incorporated.
Step 6: Add Apple Pie Filling
Gently fold in about ¾ cup of apple pie filling or chunky apple compote. This adds extra sweetness and juicy pockets inside the cake.
Step 7: Layer the Cake Batter and Apples
Pour half of the batter into your prepared cake tin. Arrange a layer of fresh apple slices over the batter. Spoon the remaining batter on top, then arrange the rest of the apple slices artistically on the surface.
Step 8: Sprinkle Toppings
Sprinkle the top generously with a tablespoon of brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon. For added texture, sprinkle chopped walnuts or raisins if desired.
Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes until the cake is golden brown, the apples on top are caramelized, and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for 10-15 minutes in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, ideally with a dollop of cream, custard, or vanilla ice cream.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results
- Choose the right apples: Crisp and slightly tart apples provide the best flavor contrast.
- Don’t overmix: Fold ingredients just enough to combine for a tender cake.
- Watch the bake time: Oven temperatures vary. Start checking at 45 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Caramelize toppings: Sprinkle sugar for a beautiful, crunchy crust on the apples.
- Try a streusel topping: For extra crunch, add a crumbly streusel mix on top before baking.
- Use parchment paper: It ensures easy cake release and keeps the tin clean.
Serving Ideas for Family Dinner Desserts
Jamie Oliver’s apple pie cake shines as a centerpiece for family dinner desserts. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
- Serve with fresh whipped cream or lightly sweetened crème fraîche.
- Pair with warm vanilla custard for classic British comfort.
- Add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a cool, creamy contrast.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or honey for extra sweetness.
- Garnish with toasted nuts or fresh mint leaves for texture and color.
Variations to Personalize Your Apple Pie Cake
This recipe is a fantastic base you can easily adapt:
- Spiced apple pie cake: Add nutmeg, ground cloves, or cardamom to the batter for deeper flavor.
- Mixed fruit version: Incorporate sliced pears, cranberries, or raisins with the apples.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-free: Swap butter for coconut oil and milk for almond or oat milk.
- Add nuts: Fold chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for crunch.
Nutritional Overview
This sweet apple pie cake balances indulgence with some nutritional benefits:
- Apples provide fiber, vitamins C and K.
- Cinnamon and spices offer antioxidants.
- Using moderate sugar and butter keeps calories reasonable.
- Baking instead of frying reduces fat.
- You can further lighten the cake by substituting yogurt for some butter.
It’s an excellent way to satisfy dessert cravings with some wholesome fruit.
How to Store and Reheat
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freeze sliced portions wrapped tightly for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake
Q: Can I prepare this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, bake it in advance and keep covered at room temperature or refrigerated. Warm it slightly before serving for best flavor.
Q: Can I use canned apple pie filling?
A: Canned filling can be used, but fresh apples provide better texture and flavor balance.
Q: What other spices can I use?
A: Nutmeg, cloves, allspice, or cardamom can complement or substitute cinnamon and mixed spice.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, use a larger cake tin and adjust baking time accordingly.
Why This Apple Pie Filling Cake Belongs in Your Dessert Collection
This recipe embodies the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and comfort. It’s a quintessential easy family dessert with a homely feel, rich in the classic flavors of apple pie but much quicker to make.
For anyone who loves desserts apple-inspired, this cake will quickly become a favorite go-to. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet, spiced, and moist with a gorgeous presentation that’s bound to impress family and guests.
Final Thoughts: Bake Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie Cake Today!
Whether you’re searching for the best easy dessert recipes simple enough for beginner bakers or a spectacular family dinner dessert to crown your meal, Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie Cake is an outstanding choice. Its combination of fresh apples, spices, and a tender cake base makes it one of the most satisfying and accessible apple pie easy recipes available.
Get your ingredients, preheat your oven, and discover how simple and delicious this sweet apple pie cake can be. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the humble apple in a dessert everyone will love.
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