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irish apple cake recipe.

Traditional Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce – A Classic Irish Dessert

This moist and tender Irish Apple Cake is filled with tart apples and warm spices, topped with a golden crumble. Served with creamy custard, it’s a perfect old-fashioned dessert for St. Patrick’s Day or cozy evenings.

What Is Irish Apple Cake?

Irish Apple Cake is a rustic, lightly spiced cake traditionally made with tart apples and served with a rich homemade custard sauce. Sometimes called “Irish Apple Tart” or “country cake,” it’s a staple in Irish baking—especially enjoyed during harvest season and family gatherings.

This cake features a buttery crumb, chunks of fresh apple, and a subtle cinnamon note. It’s less sweet than American-style cakes, which makes it perfect for tea time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Uses simple pantry ingredients
  • Filled with fresh apples and warm spice
  • Light, buttery texture with a crunchy topping
  • Traditional Irish dessert with comforting flavors
  • Optional custard sauce for a creamy finish

Ingredients for Irish Apple Cake

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 3–4 tart apples (like Granny Smith), peeled and chopped
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Custard Sauce (Optional):

  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)

How to Make Irish Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Fold in the chopped apples.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla.
  2. Add to the flour-apple mixture and stir until just combined.

Step 3: Bake

  1. Pour batter into the prepared pan and level the top.
  2. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  3. Cool slightly before slicing.

How to Make the Custard Sauce (Optional)

  1. Heat milk in a saucepan until just simmering.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch.
  3. Slowly add hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
  4. Return to the pan and cook over low heat until thickened.
  5. Stir in vanilla and serve warm over cake.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use tart apples for the best flavor contrast
  • Don’t overmix the batter—keep it rustic
  • For extra texture, sprinkle with sugar before baking
  • Serve warm with custard, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, Irish Apple Cake keeps well. Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4.

Can I freeze Irish Apple Cake?
Yes! Freeze without the custard sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What apples work best?
Granny Smith, Bramley, or Honeycrisp apples work well. You want a tart, firm apple that holds its shape.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with custard sauce or whipped cream
  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving
  • Pair with hot tea or Irish coffee

More Irish Recipes You’ll Love

Enjoyed this Irish Apple Cake?
Save this recipe, share it on Pinterest, or leave a comment below! It’s a perfect blend of old-world charm and cozy home baking.


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