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Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce Recipe

This delightful Irish apple cake with custard sauce is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall. The combination of tart granny smith apples, warm spices, and a luscious custard sauce makes this dessert irresistible.

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Photos of Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up some ground allspice and granny smith apples at the supermarket. Allspice adds a unique depth to the spice blend, and granny smith apples are ideal for baking due to their tartness and firmness.

Ingredients for Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

all-purpose flour: The base ingredient that gives structure to the cake.

baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.

salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

ground ginger: Adds a warm, slightly spicy flavor to the cake.

nutmeg: A warm spice that complements the apples well.

allspice: Provides a unique, aromatic spice blend.

unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.

granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with browning.

granny smith apples: Tart and firm apples perfect for baking.

milk: Adds moisture and helps to bind the ingredients together.

eggs: Provide structure and stability to the cake batter.

vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.

ground cinnamon: A warm spice that pairs beautifully with apples.

whole milk: Used for making the custard sauce.

egg yolks: Thicken the custard sauce and add richness.

vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the custard sauce.

One reader, Bertie Smothers says:

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This Irish apple cake with custard sauce is absolutely delightful! The cake is moist and flavorful, with a perfect blend of spices and tender apple chunks. The custard sauce adds a creamy, luxurious touch that elevates the entire dessert. A must-try for any apple lover!

Bertie Smothers

Techniques Required for Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

How to rub butter into flour mixture: Use your fingertips to mix the butter into the flour until it resembles fine crumbs. How to peel, core, and dice apples: Peel the apples, slice them in half, remove the core and stem, then slice and dice them into smaller chunks. How to whisk egg yolks and sugar: Whisk vigorously until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which can take about 2 to 3 minutes by hand or 30 seconds with an electric mixer. How to temper eggs: Slowly pour a small amount of hot milk into the egg yolk mixture while whisking to gradually raise the temperature of the eggs without curdling them. How to cook custard sauce: Cook the mixture while whisking constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a wooden spoon, being careful not to overheat to avoid curdling the eggs.

How To Make Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

A decadent cake to suit every occasion, or may it be even just a weekend treat! This Irish apple cake recipe is perfect for your sweet cravings.

Preparation: 25 minutes
Cooking: 50 minutes
Total: 1 hour 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cake:

  • 3cupsall-purpose flour
  • 1tbspbaking powder
  • ½tspsalt
  • ¼tspground ginger
  • ¼tspnutmeg
  • ¼tspallspice
  • ¾cupunsalted buttercold, diced into small pieces
  • 1cupgranulated sugarplus 2 tbsp, divided
  • lbgranny smith applesabout 5 medium
  • ¾cupmilk
  • 2eggslarge
  • 1tspvanilla extract
  • ½tspground cinnamon

For Custard Sauce:

  • cupswhole milk
  • 1pinchsalt
  • 6egg yolkslarge
  • ½cupgranulated sugar
  • tspvanilla extract

Instructions

Cake:

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Butter and flour a 9-inch springform pan, set aside.

  2. In a very large mixing bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, ginger, nutmeg and allspice for 20 seconds.

  3. Add butter pieces and rub into mixture using fingertips until it resembles fine crumbs. Stir in 1 cup sugar.

  4. Peel apples, slice in half, core and stem, then laying apples on flat side, slice downward into pieces slightly less than ¼-inch thick, then dice those pieces into smaller chunks (about 2 or 3 chunks depending on size of apples).

  5. Add apples to flour mixture and toss well to evenly coat, while working to separate any apples that may be stuck together.

  6. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs and vanilla until well combined.

  7. Pour milk mixture over apple/flour mixture and using clean hands, toss just until combined (batter will be slightly lumpy but that’s fine, just don’t over-mix).

  8. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.

  9. In a small bowl stir together remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar plus ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, sprinkle evenly over cake.

  10. Bake in preheated oven 45 to 50 minutes until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean.

  11. Cool about 5 minutes on a wire rack then remove ring from springform pan and allow cake to cool to desired temperature.

  12. Serve warm drizzled with warm custard sauce (or cool with cold custard sauce, however you prefer).

Custard Sauce:

  1. Heat milk with a pinch of salt over medium heat, and bring just to a light boil (keep an eye on it and remove from burner if needed before letting it rapidly boil).

  2. Meanwhile, add egg yolks and sugar to a medium mixing bowl and whisk vigorously until pale and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes (alternately you can do this with an electric hand mixer on high speed for about 30 seconds if you don’t want to mix that long by hand). Reduce burner to medium-low heat, then while whisking egg yolk mixture, slowly pour in ½ cup of the hot milk mixture.

  3. Then, while whisking milk in saucepan slowly pour egg yolk mixture into saucepan.

  4. Cook mixture, whisking constantly, until thickened and mixture coats the back of a wooden spoon, about 3 to 4 minutes (be careful not to over-heat it, if you cook it too long or don’t whisk well the eggs will curdle).

  5. Immediately pour into a glass container, stir in vanilla and whisk about 20 seconds to cool slightly, then cover with plastic wrap pressing against surface to prevent a skin from forming.

  6. Serve warm over cake (or cold). Store in refrigerator in an airtight container.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 408.79kcal
  • Fat: 15.90g
  • Saturated Fat: 9.07g
  • Trans Fat: 0.47g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 4.44g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.07g
  • Carbohydrates: 59.61g
  • Fiber: 2.51g
  • Sugar: 32.97g
  • Protein: 7.02g
  • Cholesterol: 134.79mg
  • Sodium: 236.17mg
  • Calcium: 161.90mg
  • Potassium: 185.91mg
  • Iron: 2.03mg
  • Vitamin A: 158.07µg
  • Vitamin C: 0.02mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Irish Apple Cake

When making the custard sauce, be sure to temper the egg yolks by slowly adding the hot milk mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Irish Apple Cake

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smoother workflow and prevents last-minute searches.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly mix the butter into the flour mixture. This saves time compared to using your fingertips.

Prep apples in advance: Peel, core, and chop the apples ahead of time. Store them in a bowl of water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning.

Make custard while baking: Prepare the custard sauce while the cake is baking. This multitasking reduces overall cooking time.

Use an electric mixer: Whisk the egg yolks and sugar with an electric mixer to speed up the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce Recipe

  • all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the cake denser.

  • baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1/4 tsp baking soda and 1/2 tsp cream of tartar for each tsp of baking powder.

  • salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and adds a slightly different mineral taste.

  • ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Use 1 tsp of freshly grated ginger for a more intense flavor.

  • nutmeg - Substitute with mace: Mace has a similar flavor profile to nutmeg and can be used in equal amounts.

  • allspice - Substitute with cinnamon and cloves: Use a mix of 1/2 tsp cinnamon and 1/2 tsp ground cloves for a similar flavor.

  • unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the same quantity and adds a slight coconut flavor.

  • granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.

  • granny smith apples - Substitute with honeycrisp apples: Honeycrisp apples are equally tart and hold their shape well when baked.

  • milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can be used in the same quantity.

  • eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water for each egg as a vegan alternative.

  • vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor to the cake.

  • ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon and adds additional warm spices.

  • whole milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream makes the custard richer and creamier.

  • salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used in the same quantity and has a slightly different texture.

  • egg yolks - Substitute with cornstarch: Use 1 tbsp cornstarch for each egg yolk to thicken the custard without eggs.

  • granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

  • vanilla extract - Substitute with vanilla bean paste: Vanilla bean paste provides a more intense vanilla flavor and visual appeal.

Presenting Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

  1. Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the Irish apple cake into elegant, bite-sized squares or triangles. This allows for a refined presentation and ensures each piece has a perfect balance of apple and cake.

  2. Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar and a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Add a small mint leaf or an edible flower on top for a touch of color and sophistication.

  3. Plate with precision: Place each piece of cake slightly off-center on a pristine white plate. This creates a visually appealing contrast and draws attention to the dessert.

  4. Custard sauce presentation: Serve the custard sauce in a small, elegant pitcher or drizzle it artistically around the cake. Alternatively, create a small pool of custard on the plate and place the cake on top, allowing the sauce to gently ooze out.

  5. Add texture: Include a few thin slices of fresh apple fanned out on the side of the plate. This not only adds a fresh element but also reinforces the primary ingredient of the dish.

  6. Incorporate crunch: Sprinkle a few toasted almond slivers or walnut pieces around the cake for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the apple.

  7. Temperature contrast: Serve the cake warm with the custard sauce slightly chilled. This creates a delightful contrast in temperatures, enhancing the overall dining experience.

  8. Use high-quality serving ware: Present the dessert on fine china or a sleek, modern plate. The choice of serving ware should reflect the elegance of the dish and elevate the dining experience.

  9. Highlight the spices: Lightly dust the plate with a mix of ground ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. This not only adds visual appeal but also hints at the flavors within the cake.

  10. Finish with a flourish: Just before serving, give the cake a light mist of apple cider or calvados for an aromatic finish that enhances the apple flavor.

Essential Tools for Making Irish Apple Cake

  • Oven: Used to bake the cake at a consistent temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Springform pan: A 9-inch pan with removable sides, ideal for baking the cake and easily releasing it without damaging its shape.

  • Butter: Used to grease the springform pan to prevent the cake from sticking.

  • Flour: Used to dust the springform pan to further prevent sticking.

  • Very large mixing bowl: Used to mix the dry ingredients and later combine them with the wet ingredients and apples.

  • Whisk: Used to mix the dry ingredients and to whisk the milk, eggs, and vanilla together.

  • Fingertips: Used to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine crumbs.

  • Peeler: Used to peel the apples.

  • Knife: Used to core, stem, and dice the apples.

  • Separate mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla.

  • Clean hands: Used to toss the apple and flour mixture with the milk mixture until combined.

  • Small bowl: Used to mix the remaining sugar and cinnamon for sprinkling on top of the cake.

  • Toothpick: Used to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center and seeing if it comes out clean.

  • Wire rack: Used to cool the cake after baking.

  • Medium mixing bowl: Used to whisk the egg yolks and sugar for the custard sauce.

  • Electric hand mixer: An optional tool to whisk the egg yolks and sugar more quickly.

  • Saucepan: Used to heat the milk for the custard sauce.

  • Wooden spoon: Used to check if the custard sauce has thickened enough to coat its back.

  • Glass container: Used to store the custard sauce after cooking.

  • Plastic wrap: Used to cover the custard sauce to prevent a skin from forming.

  • Airtight container: Used to store the custard sauce in the refrigerator.

Storing and Freezing Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for Irish apple cake with custard sauce:

  • Let the cake cool completely to room temperature before storing. Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  • Store the wrapped cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • The custard sauce should be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
  • If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • To thaw the frozen cake, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, you can warm it up in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
  • The custard sauce does not freeze well, so it's best to make it fresh when you plan to serve the cake. However, if you have leftover sauce, you can freeze it in an ice cube tray, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag for easier storage. Thaw the cubes in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a saucepan before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

  • To reheat leftover Irish apple cake in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy. This method helps to restore the cake's texture and flavor.

  • For a quicker reheating option, use the microwave. Place a single slice of Irish apple cake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 20-30 seconds. If the cake is not heated to your liking, continue heating it in 10-second intervals until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it may become rubbery or dry.

  • To reheat the custard sauce, use a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water. Pour the sauce into the bowl and stir continuously until it is heated through. This gentle heating method prevents the sauce from curdling or burning. Alternatively, you can reheat the sauce in the microwave using short intervals and stirring frequently.

  • If you have both leftover cake and sauce, you can reheat them together for a delicious and convenient treat. Cut the cake into bite-sized pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Pour the custard sauce over the cake pieces and gently stir to coat. Microwave the mixture on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Stir the mixture once more before serving.

  • For a crispy twist, try reheating leftover Irish apple cake in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a slice of cake to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through. Serve the warm cake with a drizzle of reheated custard sauce for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Random Fact about Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

A traditional Irish apple cake is often enjoyed with a rich custard sauce, making it a comforting dessert. This recipe combines the tartness of Granny Smith apples with the warmth of spices like ginger and nutmeg.

Is Making Irish Apple Cake at Home Economical?

The Irish apple cake with custard sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like flour, sugar, milk, and eggs are pantry staples, while Granny Smith apples and spices are relatively affordable. The overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 8 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15 USD, making it an economical yet delightful dessert.

Is Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to its high sugar and fat content. The cake itself contains a significant amount of butter and sugar, which contribute to its rich flavor but also add saturated fat and empty calories. Additionally, the custard sauce is made with whole milk, egg yolks, and more sugar, further increasing the calorie count and fat content of the dish.

However, there are some redeeming qualities to this recipe. The use of whole apples provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for a balanced diet. The spices used, such as ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon, not only add flavor but also have potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:

  • Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cake and custard sauce by 25-50%, as the natural sweetness of the apples can help compensate for the reduced sugar
  • Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the cake
  • Use a mix of butter and a heart-healthy oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, to reduce the saturated fat content
  • Opt for low-fat or non-dairy milk in the custard sauce to decrease the overall fat content
  • Serve smaller portions of the cake and custard sauce, and pair them with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance out the meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Irish Dessert

This Irish apple cake with custard sauce recipe is a delightful blend of warm spices and tender apples, creating a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. The use of Granny Smith apples adds a pleasant tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake. The custard sauce, rich and creamy, complements the cake beautifully, adding an extra layer of indulgence. The instructions are clear and detailed, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve excellent results. Overall, this recipe promises a delicious and satisfying treat that captures the essence of traditional Irish baking.

Enhance Your Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Root Vegetables: Imagine a medley of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, roasted to perfection with a hint of thyme and rosemary. The earthy flavors and crispy edges will complement the sweetness of the Irish Apple Cake beautifully.
Caramelized Pear Salad: A fresh salad featuring caramelized pears, arugula, and walnuts, drizzled with a honey and balsamic vinaigrette. The sweet and tangy notes will dance harmoniously with the warm, spiced flavors of the cake.
Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This creamy, comforting soup will provide a savory contrast to the Irish Apple Cake, making each bite of dessert even more delightful.
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crispy brussels sprouts glazed with maple syrup and a touch of balsamic vinegar. The slight bitterness of the sprouts, balanced by the sweetness of the glaze, will enhance the flavors of the cake and custard sauce.
Spiced Cranberry Compote: A vibrant cranberry compote spiced with cinnamon and cloves. This tart and sweet side dish will add a burst of flavor and a pop of color to your dessert plate, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Similar Recipes to Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream: Dive into the comforting layers of apple crumble, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm, spiced apples contrast beautifully with the cold, creamy ice cream, making it a perfect dessert for any season.
Spiced Pear Tart with Almond Cream: Indulge in the delicate flavors of a spiced pear tart paired with a rich almond cream. The buttery crust and fragrant pears create a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce: Experience the autumnal delight of pumpkin bread pudding, drizzled with a luscious caramel sauce. This dessert combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices with the sweet, sticky goodness of caramel.
Blueberry Lemon Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: Savor the zesty and sweet combination of blueberry lemon cake, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. The burst of blueberries and the refreshing hint of lemon make this cake a delightful treat.
Rhubarb Strawberry Crisp with Whipped Cream: Enjoy the tart and sweet flavors of rhubarb strawberry crisp, served with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The crunchy topping and the juicy fruit filling create a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

Appetizers:
Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a satisfying crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts to a golden perfection. Serve these warm and watch them disappear quickly.
Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers offer a fresh and vibrant start to your dining experience. Picture cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls threaded onto skewers. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction and a touch of extra virgin olive oil for a burst of flavor. These are not only visually appealing but also a refreshing bite that sets the tone for the meal.
Main Courses:
Beef Wellington: Beef Wellington is a show-stopping dish that combines the richness of beef tenderloin with the earthiness of mushrooms and the buttery flakiness of puff pastry. The beef is seared to perfection, then coated with a savory duxelles mixture made from finely chopped mushrooms, shallots, and herbs. This is then wrapped in a delicate layer of prosciutto and encased in golden puff pastry. The result is a tender, juicy beef center surrounded by layers of flavor and texture. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables and a rich red wine sauce for an unforgettable dining experience.
Chicken Marsala: Chicken Marsala is an Italian-American classic that features tender chicken cutlets sautéed to a golden brown and then simmered in a luxurious Marsala wine sauce. The sauce is enriched with mushrooms, shallots, and a touch of cream, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The dish is typically served over a bed of buttery pasta or alongside garlic mashed potatoes, making it a comforting yet elegant meal. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and add a touch of freshness.

Why trust this Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce Recipe:

This Irish apple cake with custard sauce recipe is a time-tested classic, blending the tartness of Granny Smith apples with the warmth of spices. The detailed instructions ensure a foolproof baking experience, while the homemade custard sauce adds a rich, creamy finish. Using simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful dessert that captures the essence of traditional Irish baking. Trust in its authenticity and the joy it brings to every bite.

Share your thoughts on this delightful Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how it turned out for you!
FAQ:
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
I usually check by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. It should take about 45 to 50 minutes in a preheated oven at 375 degrees F.
Can I use a different type of apple instead of Granny Smith?
Yes, you can use other types of apples, but Granny Smith apples are preferred because they hold their shape well and provide a nice tart contrast to the sweet cake.
How should I store the leftover cake and custard sauce?
I store the leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The custard sauce should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container and can last for up to 3 days.
Can I make the custard sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the custard sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving if you prefer it warm.
What can I do if my custard sauce curdles?
If your custard sauce curdles, you can try to save it by blending it with an immersion blender until smooth. If that doesn't work, you might need to start over, making sure to cook it on medium-low heat and whisk constantly to prevent curdling.

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