Apple Rum Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned into measuring cup and leveled off)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, room temperature
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar, plus more for sprinkling
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons dark rum
- 2 baking apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch cubes (3½–4 cups chopped)
- Confectioners’ sugar (optional), for decorating
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rack in the middle position. Grease a 9-inch springform or regular cake pan with butter or nonstick spray. If using a regular cake pan, line the bottom with parchment paper and grease it again.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a handheld mixer or stand mixer, cream the butter and ⅔ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl. Add vanilla extract and dark rum. The batter may look slightly curdled, which is normal.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples using a rubber spatula.
- Prepare for Baking: Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a rack. Once cool, loosen the edges with a knife and remove from the pan. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for proper creaming with sugar.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added to keep the cake light and airy.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: Provide dietary fiber and vitamin C, promoting digestive health.
- Using Unsalted Butter: Allows for better control over the sodium content.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Straightforward ingredients and simple preparation make it a great go-to dessert.
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of rum and apples ensures a deliciously moist and flavorful cake.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself to a sweet indulgence.