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French Apple Invisible Cake Recipe

4.6 from 106 reviews

This French Apple Invisible Cake is a delicate and delightful dessert featuring thinly sliced apples layered in a light, tender batter. Baked to a golden perfection and topped with sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar, it offers a beautiful balance of sweet, fruity flavors and a unique texture that melts in your mouth. Perfect for an elegant afternoon tea or a light dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples

  • 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
  • Pinch of salt
  • ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples very thinly using a mandoline if possible to ensure uniform thickness. Set the slices aside in a large bowl.
  2. Make the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with both the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture turns light and fluffy, indicating enough aeration.
  3. Add wet ingredients: Stir in the melted butter, whole milk, and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine all wet ingredients smoothly.
  4. Incorporate dry ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, then whisk into the wet mixture until smooth and free of lumps.
  5. Fold in apples: Gently fold the thin apple slices into the batter. The batter will be thin, and every apple slice should be lightly coated without being overly covered, allowing the slices to layer beautifully when baked.
  6. Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan or square pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate removal.
  7. Assemble the cake: Pour the apple-batter mixture into the prepared pan, pressing gently to arrange the apples in neat layers for an even distribution.
  8. Add topping: Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the top to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor after baking.
  9. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown on top and set in the center when tested with a toothpick.
  10. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing; this step is essential to help it hold its shape. Before serving, dust the cake generously with powdered sugar for an attractive finish.

Notes

  • Using a mandoline for slicing apples ensures uniform thickness and even cooking.
  • Allowing the cake to cool completely is crucial for maintaining its delicate structure and ease of slicing.
  • Experiment with different apple varieties such as Fuji or Braeburn for varied flavor profiles.
  • The cake is best enjoyed within 2 days of baking but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
  • To keep the cake moist, cover loosely with foil if storing in the refrigerator.

Keywords: French apple invisible cake, apple dessert, thinly sliced apple cake, French baking, easy apple cake, almond topped cake