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A selection of homemade cakes and tarts showcasing different cake recipes.

Apple-Cinnamon Tart-Cake

A seasonal delight featuring caramelized apples and a buttery cake-like crust, perfect for cozy gatherings and crisp mornings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Seasonal
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the apples
  • 3 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), about 2–3 cups sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for apples)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for apples)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing apples, optional)
  • 1 pinch nutmeg or cardamom (optional spice note)
For the cake batter
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup almond flour or finely ground oats (optional, for a nuttier base) Optional
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar (for batter)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 cup whole milk or buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional) Brightens flavor
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (for finishing)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Position a rack in the middle of the oven.
  2. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss them in a bowl with granulated sugar and cinnamon. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to release juices for caramelization.
  3. Grease your tart pan or line with parchment paper.
Make the batter
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, almond flour (if using), baking powder, salt, and nutmeg or cardamom.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and lemon zest.
  4. With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients in two batches, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Arrange and bake
  1. Spread half the batter into the prepared pan.
  2. Layer the apple slices over the batter.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the apples and gently spread to cover.
  4. Brush apple slices with melted butter and sprinkle with light brown sugar.
  5. Bake for 40–50 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Finishing touches
  1. Allow the tart-cake to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
  2. For a glossy finish, brush warmed apricot jam over the apples.

Notes

For gluten-free, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It pairs well with roasted mains, perfect for family gatherings. Slice thinly for a quicker dessert.