French Apple Invisible Cake Recipe

Introduction

The French Apple Invisible Cake is a delightful dessert that highlights thinly sliced apples layered in a light, tender batter. This cake is surprisingly easy to make and offers a moist, flavorful bite with a delicate texture. Perfect for an afternoon treat or a charming end to dinner.

Ingredients

• 6 medium apples (firm, crisp variety like Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds (for topping)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Peel, core, and slice the apples very thinly. Using a mandoline slicer will make this easier and ensure even slices. Place the slices in a large bowl and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Add the melted butter, whole milk, and vanilla extract to the eggs and sugar. Mix well to combine.
4. Step 4: Sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
5. Step 5: Gently fold the thinly sliced apples into the batter, ensuring each slice is coated. The batter will be thin, so aim to layer the apples with just enough batter to bind them together.
6. Step 6: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan or a square baking pan with parchment paper.
7. Step 7: Pour the apple and batter mixture into the prepared pan. Press lightly to arrange the apples into neat layers for an even bake.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly over the top of the cake for a crunchy finish.
9. Step 9: Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and set in the center.
10. Step 10: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing, which helps it hold together. Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Tips & Variations

• Use a firm, crisp apple variety to keep the slices distinct and slightly textured after baking.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Replace sliced almonds with chopped walnuts or pecans if preferred.
• If you like a sweeter cake, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top before baking.

Storage

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be served cold or gently warmed in the microwave for about 15 seconds. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with any milk you prefer, such as almond milk or oat milk. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different depending on the milk used.

What makes this cake “invisible”?

The name “invisible” refers to how the thin apple slices blend seamlessly into the batter, making the cake appear as if the apples are “invisible” while providing a delicate, layered texture.

French Apple Invisible Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 85 reviews

French Apple Invisible Cake is a delicate and moist dessert featuring thinly sliced apples layered in a light, fluffy batter. This traditional French treat offers a perfect balance of sweet apples and subtle vanilla, topped with crunchy almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar for added charm.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit

• 6 medium apples (firm, crisp variety like Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp)

Batter

• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Toppings

• 2 tbsp sliced almonds (for topping)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples very thinly using a mandoline slicer if available. Place the sliced apples in a large bowl and set aside.
2. Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and slightly pale in color.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the melted butter, whole milk, and vanilla extract into the egg and sugar mixture. Mix well to combine all wet ingredients evenly.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the batter until smooth and free of lumps.
5. Fold in Apples: Gently fold the thin apple slices into the batter, ensuring all slices are coated. The batter will be thin, and the apples should be layered just enough to be bound by the batter.
6. Prepare Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan or square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
7. Assemble Cake: Pour the apple and batter mixture into the prepared pan, pressing lightly to neatly arrange apples in layered formations for an even structure.
8. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the top to add a crunchy texture after baking.
9. Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake is set when gently touched.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing to help it hold its shape. Dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful finishing touch.

Notes

• Use a sharp mandoline slicer for uniformly thin apple slices to ensure even baking.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to maintain its delicate layered texture.
• Choose crisp, firm apples for the best texture and flavor in the cake.
• This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives.

Keywords: French apple cake, invisible apple cake, thin apple slices dessert, French dessert, baked apple cake, layered apple cake, almond topping cake