Delia Smith Apple Cake

Name: Delia Smith's Chunky Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 1 cake
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 225g self-raising flour; 1 rounded tsp baking powder; 1 level tsp mixed spice; ½ level tsp ground cinnamon; 3 Bramley apples (about 550g); 2 large eggs, beaten; 75g spreadable butter; 175g light brown soft sugar; Zest of 1 large orange; 1 tbsp chopped mixed peel; 1 tbsp milk (if needed); Icing sugar, for dusting

Delve into the cozy world of autumn baking with Delia Smith's celebrated Chunky Apple Cake, a delight that combines the tartness of Bramley apples with the warmth of cinnamon and mixed spices. This cake is an embodiment of rustic charm and simplicity, inviting you to savor the essence of fall in every bite.

Delia Smith's Chunky Apple Cake: A Brief Overview

The Chunky Apple Cake by Delia Smith is a testament to the versatility of apples in baking. Featuring Bramley apples known for their sourness and firmness, this cake emerges from the oven with a moist texture and a harmonious blend of spices that complement the fruitiness of the apples.

Cultural or Historical Context

Apple cakes are a staple in British baking, heralding the arrival of autumn with the harvest of apples. Delia Smith, a revered figure in British culinary arts, offers her take on this classic dessert, infusing it with her signature approach to cooking that emphasizes simplicity, flavor, and technique.

Ingredients for the Chunky Apple Cake

Self-raising flour: 225g, ensures a light and fluffy texture.
Baking powder: 1 rounded teaspoon, for rise.
Mixed spice: 1 level teaspoon, adds depth.
Ground cinnamon: ½ level teaspoon, for warmth.
Bramley apples: 3 (about 550g), the star ingredient.
Large eggs: 2, beaten, for structure.
Spreadable butter: 75g, for richness.
Light brown soft sugar: 175g, offers a caramelized sweetness.
Orange zest: From 1 large orange, adds a citrusy note.
Chopped mixed peel: 1 tablespoon, for a hint of bitterness.
Milk: 1 tablespoon (if needed), to adjust the consistency.
Icing sugar: A little, for dusting.

Preparation Instructions

Start by sifting together the flour, baking powder, and spices to aerate the mixture.
Chop the Bramley apples into small dice and coat them lightly in some of the flour mixture.
Cream together the eggs, butter, and sugar, then gradually fold in the orange zest, mixed peel, and diced apples into the batter, adjusting with milk if too dry.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (gas mark 4) until the cake is springy to the touch and golden.

Storage and Reheating

For best results, store the Chunky Apple Cake in an airtight container to keep it moist. It can last up to 3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for longer storage. Thaw overnight at room temperature and warm slightly in the oven if desired before serving.

Nutritional Information

A slice of this apple cake, without additional garnishes, provides a moderate amount of calories primarily from carbs and fats, with a dash of protein. The exact nutritional content can vary based on the size of the slice and specific ingredients used.

FAQ about the Chunky Apple Cake

Can I use different types of apples? Bramley apples are preferred for their tartness and texture, but other tart apple varieties can be used as substitutes.
How do I prevent the apples from browning? Tossing the chopped apples in flour not only helps in evenly distributing them throughout the cake but also minimizes browning.
Can this cake be made in advance? Yes, it can be baked ahead and stored as advised for enjoying later.

This comforting Chunky Apple Cake recipe from Delia Smith is a perfect treat to welcome the autumn season, offering a delightful blend of tart apples, warm spices, and the unmistakable joy of homemade baking. It's a testament to the simple pleasures that seasonal ingredients can bring to our tables and hearts.

Original recipe by Delia Smith.