Name: Gâteau Invisible (Invisible Apple Cake) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 52 min
Total time: 1 h 7 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: For Gateau Invisible:; 2 lb apples; 2 eggs; ½ cup sugar; ½ cup milk; 1 tbsp butter; ¾ cup all-purpose flour; almond; For Butter Caramel Sauce:; ½ cup sugar; 1 tbsp butter; ½ cup heavy cream

Gâteau invisible is a delicate French cake that showcases layers of apple slices held together by a light, custard-like batter. This dessert is not only beautiful but also incredibly delicious, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering.

Photos of Gâteau Invisible (Invisible Apple Cake) Recipe

While most ingredients for gâteau invisible are common, almonds and heavy cream for the butter caramel sauce might not be staples in every household. Make sure to pick these up during your supermarket trip.

Ingredients for Gâteau Invisible

apples: Thinly sliced to create the cake layers. eggs: Provide structure and richness. sugar: Sweetens the batter and caramel sauce. milk: Adds moisture and richness. butter: Adds flavor and moisture. all-purpose flour: Forms the batter that holds the apple layers. almonds: Adds a crunchy topping. heavy cream: Used in the caramel sauce.

One reader, Cthrine Hall says:

This gâteau invisible is a delightful treat! The layers of thinly sliced apples meld perfectly with the light, custardy batter. The almond topping adds a lovely crunch, and the butter caramel sauce is simply divine. A must-try for any dessert lover!

Cthrine Hall

Techniques Required for Making Gâteau Invisible

Yes.

How to peel and core apples: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, then cut the apple into quarters and use a knife or an apple corer to remove the core. How to slice apples thinly: Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to cut the apples into very thin slices. How to whisk eggs and sugar until pale: Use a whisk or an electric mixer to beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes light in color and slightly frothy. How to sift flour: Use a sifter or a fine-mesh strainer to aerate the flour and remove any lumps before adding it to the batter. How to line a loaf pan with parchment paper: Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom and sides of the loaf pan, then press it into place. How to cover a baking dish with foil: Tear off a piece of aluminum foil large enough to cover the baking dish, then place it over the top to prevent over-browning. How to make caramel sauce in the microwave: Combine sugar and butter in a microwave-safe bowl, heat until the sugar turns dark brown, then carefully add cream and whisk until smooth.

How To Make Gâteau Invisible (Invisible Apple Cake)

Everyone will fall in love with this delicious Invisible Apple Cake that’s filled with the goodness of apples, topped with a tasty butter caramel sauce!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 52 minutes

Total: 1 hour 7 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Gateau Invisible:

2lbapples,such as Fuji or Pink Lady
2eggs
½cupsugar
½cupmilk
1tbspbutter,melted
¾cupall-purpose flour
almond,sliced, to taste

For Butter Caramel Sauce:

½cupsugar
1tbspbutter
½cupheavy cream

Instructions

Gâteau Invisible

Peel the apples and remove the cores. Slice them very thinly.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until pale. Add the milk and melted butter and mix well.
Sift in the flour and combine. Add the sliced apples.
Using a rubber spatula, coat the apples well with the batter.
Spoon the apples into a parchment paper-lined loaf pan, then pour over the remaining batter.
Top with sliced almonds.
Bake for 40 minutes. Cover with a foil and bake another 10 minutes.
Let cool, then remove the cake from the pan.

Butter Caramel Sauce:

In a microwave-safe bowl, add the sugar and butter. Microwave 2 minutes or until sugar turns dark brown.
Using oven mitts, very carefully take the bowl from the microwave.
The bowl and sugar will be extremely hot so be careful when handling them.
Immediately add the cream and whisk well with a metal spoon or whisk (this will splatter a bit, but keep stirring).
Pour the caramel over the cake and serve.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 479.71kcal
Fat: 16.33g
Saturated Fat: 9.47g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.59g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.05g
Carbohydrates: 81.32g
Fiber: 4.86g
Sugar: 60.79g
Protein: 5.87g
Cholesterol: 111.24mg
Sodium: 47.17mg
Calcium: 68.14mg
Potassium: 290.16mg
Iron: 1.42mg
Vitamin A: 180.86µg
Vitamin C: 8.49mg

Essential Technique Tip for Perfecting Gâteau Invisible

When slicing the apples for the gâteau invisible, use a mandoline slicer to achieve uniformly thin slices. This ensures even baking and a delicate texture throughout the cake.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This French Apple Cake

Prep ingredients ahead: Peel and slice the apples the night before and store them in the fridge to save time.

Use a food processor: Slice the apples quickly and uniformly with a food processor.

Microwave caramel sauce: Make the butter caramel sauce in the microwave to speed up the process.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the flour, sugar, and milk before starting to streamline the mixing process.

Line the pan: Use pre-cut parchment paper to line the loaf pan quickly and easily.

Substitute Ingredients For Gâteau Invisible (Invisible Apple Cake) Recipe

apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative for this cake.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water per egg. This works well as a binding agent in baking.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and adds moisture to the cake.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that maintains the cake's moisture.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can replace butter, providing a similar fat content and a subtle coconut flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: A gluten-free flour blend can be used to make the cake suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
almond - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used in the caramel sauce for a different but delicious sweetness.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a similar fat content and can be used in caramel sauce for a rich flavor.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a rich, creamy texture and is a good dairy-free alternative.

Best Way to Present a Gâteau Invisible

Use a rectangular white plate: The clean lines of a white plate will highlight the delicate layers of the gâteau invisible and make the colors pop.
Slice the cake precisely: Cut the gâteau invisible into even, thin slices to showcase the intricate layers of apples and batter.
Fan out the slices: Arrange the slices in a slightly fanned-out manner to create visual interest and allow the layers to be visible from the side.
Drizzle with butter caramel sauce: Use a spoon to artistically drizzle the butter caramel sauce over the top of the gâteau invisible, letting it cascade down the sides.
Garnish with almond slivers: Sprinkle a few extra sliced almonds on top for added texture and a touch of elegance.
Add a dollop of whipped cream: Place a small dollop of freshly whipped cream next to the cake slice for a luxurious touch.
Include a mint sprig: Add a small sprig of mint next to the whipped cream to introduce a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve with a caramel swirl: Create a decorative swirl of butter caramel sauce on the plate itself to tie the presentation together.
Use a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the gâteau invisible with powdered sugar just before serving for a delicate, snowy effect.
Pair with a complementary beverage: Serve with a glass of chilled apple cider or a light, fruity white wine to enhance the flavors of the dessert.

Essential Tools for Making an Invisible Apple Cake

Peeler: To remove the skin from the apples efficiently and cleanly.
Apple corer: To remove the cores from the apples, making it easier to slice them thinly.
Knife: For slicing the apples very thinly after peeling and coring.
Cutting board: A stable surface to safely slice the apples.
Mixing bowl: To whisk the eggs, sugar, milk, and melted butter together.
Whisk: To mix the eggs and sugar until pale and to combine other ingredients smoothly.
Sifter: To sift the flour into the egg mixture, ensuring there are no lumps.
Rubber spatula: To coat the apple slices well with the batter and to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Loaf pan: To bake the gâteau invisible in, lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
Parchment paper: To line the loaf pan, preventing the cake from sticking.
Aluminum foil: To cover the cake during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Oven: To bake the gâteau invisible at the correct temperature.
Microwave-safe bowl: To make the butter caramel sauce in the microwave.
Oven mitts: To safely handle the hot microwave-safe bowl and caramel sauce.
Metal spoon or whisk: To stir the caramel sauce after adding the cream.
Serving plate: To present the finished gâteau invisible with the caramel sauce.

How to Store and Freeze Gâteau Invisible

Let the gâteau invisible cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the gâteau invisible:
- Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- The gâteau invisible can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To thaw the frozen cake:
- Remove the cake from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, remove the wrapping and let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
If you have leftover butter caramel sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat the sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Note: The texture of the apples may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the overall taste and quality of the cake should remain delicious.

How to Reheat Leftover Gâteau Invisible

The best way to reheat leftover gâteau invisible is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the apples are tender. This method helps to preserve the texture and moisture of the cake.
Another option is to reheat individual slices in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it may become rubbery or dry.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of gâteau invisible on the toaster oven rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cake is warmed through and the edges are slightly crispy.
If you want to add a touch of indulgence, reheat a slice of the cake in a skillet with a pat of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat, then place the slice in the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the cake is golden brown and heated through. This method creates a deliciously crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior.
For a no-fuss approach, enjoy your leftover gâteau invisible cold, straight from the refrigerator. The flavors of the apples and caramel will have melded together, creating a delightfully sweet and refreshing treat.

Random Fact About Gâteau Invisible:

markdown The gâteau invisible gets its name from the way the apples almost disappear into the batter during baking, creating a unique texture where the fruit and cake layers blend seamlessly.

Is Making Gâteau Invisible at Home Economical?

The gâteau invisible is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. The main ingredients, apples, eggs, sugar, milk, and flour, are all relatively inexpensive and commonly found in most households. The additional cost comes from the almonds and the heavy cream for the butter caramel sauce. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD. Given its taste and presentation, the overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness and satisfaction.

Is This French Apple Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

The gâteau invisible recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, both in the cake batter and the caramel sauce, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly.
The use of all-purpose flour provides minimal nutritional value and may cause blood sugar spikes due to its high glycemic index.
The recipe includes heavy cream and butter, which are high in saturated fats and can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems if consumed in excess.

However, the recipe does incorporate a substantial amount of apples, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. The presence of eggs also adds some protein to the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cake batter and the caramel sauce, or opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
Swap the heavy cream in the caramel sauce with a lighter alternative, such as coconut milk or Greek yogurt.
Decrease the amount of butter used in the recipe, or replace it with healthier options like coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce.
Incorporate additional fruits, such as pears or berries, to increase the overall nutritional value of the dessert.
Serve smaller portions and pair the gâteau with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of low-fat yogurt to create a more balanced and satisfying treat.

Editor's Thoughts on the Delightful Gâteau Invisible

This gâteau invisible recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and elegance. The thinly sliced apples create a visually stunning layered effect, while the batter provides a delicate, custard-like texture. The addition of sliced almonds adds a pleasant crunch. The butter caramel sauce, though straightforward, elevates the dessert with its rich, buttery sweetness. However, microwaving sugar for caramel can be tricky; stovetop might offer more control. Overall, this recipe is a beautiful and delicious way to showcase apples, perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Enhance Your Gâteau Invisible (Invisible Apple Cake) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine a velvety soup with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon, perfectly complementing the delicate sweetness of the gâteau invisible. The creamy texture and warm spices will create a harmonious balance on your palate.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: For a touch of savory elegance, consider serving asparagus spears wrapped in crispy prosciutto. The salty, smoky notes will contrast beautifully with the tender, sweet layers of apples in the cake.

Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops: Elevate your dessert experience with succulent lamb chops encrusted with fresh herbs. The robust flavors of the meat will provide a delightful counterpoint to the light and fruity gâteau invisible.

Citrus and Fennel Salad: A refreshing salad featuring crisp fennel and bright citrus segments can cleanse your palate and enhance the fruity notes of the dessert. The zesty flavors will leave you feeling invigorated.

Truffle Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in the luxurious taste of truffle-infused mashed potatoes. The earthy richness of the truffles will add a sophisticated touch, making each bite of the gâteau invisible even more memorable.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Gâteau Invisible

Apple Tarte Tatin: Dive into the classic French dessert with this upside-down apple tart. Caramelized apples and buttery pastry come together to create a delightful treat that's perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pear Clafoutis: Experience the elegance of pears baked in a custard-like batter. This traditional French dessert is light, fruity, and perfect for showcasing the natural sweetness of pears.

Cherry Almond Cake: Indulge in a moist and flavorful cake made with juicy cherries and crunchy almonds. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion and pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea.

Plum Galette: Savor the rustic charm of a plum galette. This free-form pie features a flaky crust filled with sweet and tart plums, making it a perfect end to any meal.

Lemon Ricotta Cake: Brighten your day with a zesty lemon ricotta cake. This Italian-inspired dessert is light, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor, making it an ideal treat for spring and summer.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Gâteau Invisible

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. The filling can be a delightful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, creating a creamy and aromatic base. Add a touch of parmesan for a savory kick. For an extra layer of flavor, incorporate finely chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Bruschetta: Create a vibrant and refreshing bruschetta that will tantalize your taste buds. Start with slices of toasted baguette, brushed with olive oil and lightly rubbed with garlic. Top each slice with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy finish. For a twist, add a layer of avocado or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect blend of textures and flavors.

Main Courses:

Herb-Crusted Rack Of Lamb: Herb-Crusted Rack Of Lamb is a show-stopping dish that combines the rich flavors of lamb with a fragrant herb crust. The lamb is first seared to lock in its juices, then coated with a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs. It's roasted to perfection, resulting in a tender and juicy interior with a crispy, flavorful exterior. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables and a drizzle of red wine reduction for an elegant and satisfying meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a versatile and colorful main course that can be tailored to your taste. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and spices. They are then baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Top with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs before serving. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Why trust this Gâteau Invisible (Invisible Apple Cake) Recipe:

This gâteau invisible recipe is a delightful blend of apples and a light batter, creating a unique texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of sliced almonds adds a delightful crunch, while the butter caramel sauce provides a rich, decadent finish. Each step is carefully crafted to ensure a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the guaranteed delicious outcome that will impress your guests.

Share your thoughts on the Gâteau Invisible (Invisible Apple Cake) Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how your cake turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of fruit instead of apples?

Yes, you can! Pears work really well as a substitute for apples in this recipe. Just make sure to slice them thinly, just like you would with the apples.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Yes, peeling the apples is important for the texture of the gâteau invisible. The thin slices of peeled apples blend better with the batter, giving you that unique, almost invisible look.

Can I make the butter caramel sauce on the stovetop instead of the microwave?

Absolutely! Just melt the sugar and butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns dark brown, then carefully add the cream and whisk until smooth.

How do I store leftovers?

You can store any leftover gâteau invisible in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it's a 1:1 substitute to keep the texture and consistency of the cake.