Description
This Easy French Apple Cake, also known as Gâteau Invisible, is a delicate and moist dessert that highlights thinly sliced apples embedded throughout a light, vanilla-infused batter. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a subtly sweet and tender texture, making it an elegant yet simple treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar), plus extra for dusting
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Fruits
- 4 apples (peeled and thinly sliced)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cake.
- Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale, creating a light base for the batter.
- Add Milk and Butter: Pour in 1/2 cup whole milk and 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter to the egg mixture and whisk gently to combine thoroughly.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the dry ingredients—1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt—while continuously whisking until the batter achieves a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Prepare Apples: Peel the 4 apples and thinly slice them using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. Discard the peels. Fold the apple slices gently into the batter to ensure they are evenly distributed without breaking.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the apple and batter mixture into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Use a rubber spatula or spoon to press down any apple slices that stick out, flattening the surface for even baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 1 hour until the cake is lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool and Finish: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer it carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled and set, dust the cake generously with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.
- Serve: Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy the delicate flavors and moist texture that make this French apple cake a delightful dessert.
Notes
- Use firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure apple slices are very thin to allow for even baking and to achieve the signature ‘invisible’ effect in the cake.
- If you prefer a sweeter cake, add an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar to the batter.
- Make sure to line the loaf pan well with parchment paper for easy removal and clean presentation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- This cake tastes great slightly warm or at room temperature and pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Keywords: French apple cake, gâteau invisible, apple dessert, French dessert, easy apple cake, baking, autumn dessert
