Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended)
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup white sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup warm milk
For the Milk Soak
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Apple Finish
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 medium apple, thinly sliced or diced
Optional Toppings
- Fresh whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Chopped walnuts or almonds
- A light dusting of cinnamon
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or round cake pan and line it with parchment paper.
In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the apple slices, sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon, and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized. Remove from heat and allow them to cool.
This quick sauté deepens the apple flavor and adds a subtle caramel note that complements the milk infusion later.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light, airy, and pale in color (about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer). Slowly blend in the melted butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add the dry ingredients in batches, alternating with the warm milk. Stir gently just until everything comes together. The batter should be smooth and moderately thick.
Step 3: Layer and Bake
Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Arrange the caramelized apples evenly over it, then pour the remaining batter on top. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake rest for about 10 minutes after baking. Then, using a skewer or fork, poke small holes all over the surface to help the milk mixture absorb evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Milk Mixture
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the whole milk, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and butter. Warm gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly. Do not let it boil.
Slowly pour the warm milk mixture over the cake while it is still slightly warm. Allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. For a richer, chilled texture, refrigerate for several hours.
Step 5: Add the Final Apple Layer
Just before serving, sauté the remaining apple with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until glossy and soft. Spoon this over the top of the cake for a beautiful finish.
Add whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts if desired.
💡 Helpful Tips
- Choose firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the best texture and sweetness.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake soft and tender.
- Adjust the milk soak to your liking — less for a lighter crumb, more for a custard-like consistency.
- For added indulgence, substitute part of the milk with heavy cream.
- Prefer a less sweet dessert? Reduce the condensed milk slightly.
