Rustic Apple Rum Cake

Rustic Apple Rum Cake

Ingredients

• • All-purpose flour: 1 cup (spooned and leveled)
  • Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: ¼ teaspoon

• • Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick), room temperature
  • Granulated sugar: ⅔ cup, plus more for sprinkling
  • Eggs: 2 large

• • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Dark rum: 3 tablespoons
  • Baking apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith): 2, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch cubes (about 3½–4 cups chopped)

• Confectioners’ sugar (optional): For decorating

Directions

• • Preheat and Prepare Pan:
    • • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the middle.
    • Grease a 9-inch springform or regular cake pan with butter or nonstick spray. If using a regular 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 or stand mixer, cream the butter and ⅔ cup of sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

• • Add Eggs and Flavorings:
    • Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed.
    • Add vanilla extract and dark rum, mixing well. Note: It’s normal if the batter appears slightly curdled.

• • Combine Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
    • Fold in the chopped apples gently using a rubber spatula.

• • Prepare for Baking:
    • Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
    • Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar over the batter for a crunchy topping.

• Bake:
  • Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool and Serve:
  • • Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a rack.
  • Once cooled, loosen the edges with a knife and remove the cake from the pan. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired, before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
  • Pair with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
  • Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.

• Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
• Add a handful of toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch.

Cooking Tips

• • Use firm baking apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to maintain texture during baking.
  • Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cake light and tender.

• For an alcohol-free version, replace the rum with apple juice or milk.
• Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Apples: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, promoting digestive health.
  • Eggs: Provide protein and essential vitamins like B12.
  • Dark rum: Adds depth of flavor without contributing significant calories.

• Butter: A good source of fat-soluble vitamins like A and D.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.

• Nut-Free: No nuts included, safe for nut-free diets.
• Alcohol-Free Option: Replace rum with apple juice or milk for a family-friendly version.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• • Calories: 280
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g

• Protein: 3 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 25 g