The 12 Tablespoons Apple and Cinnamon Cake is the ultimate pantry dessert, perfect for a healthy breakfast or a heartwarming autumn snack. Without the need for a scale, this apple cake can be prepared in no time, delivering an incredibly moist and soft texture that wins everyone over. It’s a very simple vegetarian recipe, perfect for those who love homemade desserts with genuine ingredients, enriched by the sweetness of Golden apples.
The secret of this success lies in the balance between the creaminess of the batter and the generous amount of fruit, enhanced by the unmistakable aroma of cinnamon and lemon. Let’s see how to make this apple cloud in just 4 steps.
The “appley” cakes I love are the invisible apple cake , but also the Venetian apple cake. The most-read recipes on the blog, among the apple cakes, are the apple cake with jam and almonds and the apple and orange cake.
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OTHER VERY SOFT DESSERTS
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Inexpensive
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Cooking methods: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All Seasons
Ingredients for the preparation of the 12 Tablespoons Apple and Cinnamon Cake
- 3 Eggs
- 3 Apples
- 12 tablespoons Sugar
- 12 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 12 tablespoons Sunflower seed oil
- 1 packet Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1 Lemon juice
How to prepare apple cake without a scale (the 12 tablespoons method)
Start by peeling the Golden apples and cutting them into small cubes, drizzling them with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar using electric beaters until a light and frothy mixture is obtained. Note: the traditional recipe requires 12 tablespoons of sugar, but if you prefer a lighter cake, you can reduce this according to your taste without compromising the success.
Add the 12 tablespoons of sunflower seed oil and the 12 tablespoons of milk to the mixture, mixing well to blend the liquids. The seed oil will ensure a light texture and lasting softness, keeping the cake moist just right.
At this point, incorporate the 12 tablespoons of flour previously sifted together with the baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Work the batter until it is smooth, creamy, and completely lump-free, taking care not to deflate the eggs excessively.
Add the apple cubes directly into the batter and stir with a spatula to distribute them evenly. Pour everything into a 9-9.5 inch pan brushed with oil and sprinkled with breadcrumbs. Bake in a static oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 40-45 minutes, checking the doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven.
Tips for a perfect result
Adjustable sugar: If you use very ripe and sweet Golden apples, you can go down to 8 tablespoons of sugar: the cake will still be delicious and much more balanced.
The baking pan: Using breadcrumbs instead of flour in the pan will prevent the cake from sticking and will give an irresistible external crust that contrasts with the soft interior.
Extra aroma: If you like a citrus taste, add the grated lemon zest to the batter in addition to the juice used for the apples.
Variations
Buffet and parties: This cake is perfect for a buffet because it can be easily cut into cubes and remains moist for a long time, ideal for being consumed without cutlery.
Chocolate chips: The apple and chocolate pairing is a classic; add 50g of dark chocolate chips for an even more delicious variant that kids will love.
Lactose-free: This recipe lends itself well to using almond or rice milk for a light and fragrant variant.
Preservation
In the pantry: It keeps very well for 3-4 days under a glass dome, maintaining its softness.
Softness: If you store it in a cool and dry place, the apples will release their moisture making the cake even better the next day.
Now it’s your turn!
The 12 Tablespoons Apple and Cinnamon Cake is that dessert that tastes like home and things made with love. It proves that, even starting from a classic recipe, everyone can find their balance by reducing sugar or adding a personal touch.
How do you prefer it: faithful to the traditional 12 tablespoons or in “light” version? Write it in the comments and don’t forget to tag me on social media if you make it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called the 12 tablespoons recipe?
Because the original version requires the same amount (12 tablespoons) for all the main ingredients, making it memorable. However, as we’ve seen, the sugar can be reduced for a more modern version.
Can I use brown sugar?
Absolutely! Brown sugar will give a more amber color and a slight caramel aftertaste that pairs divinely with cinnamon.
Are Golden apples the best choice?
Yes, they are ideal for this cake because they almost turn into a cream when baked, but you can also experiment with Renette apples for a more tangy touch.
