Mary Berry Apple and Almond Cake Recipe

Dive into the comforting warmth of Mary Berry's Apple and Almond Cake, a delightful treat that combines the moistness of apples with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds. This cake stands as a testament to Berry's knack for creating desserts that are both simple to make and utterly delicious, making it perfect for any occasion, from a casual afternoon tea to a festive gathering.

Cultural or Historical Context

Mary Berry, a revered figure in the baking world, often draws upon classic ingredients and techniques to craft her recipes. The Apple and Almond Cake is no exception, showcasing a harmonious blend of flavors that have been cherished in British baking for generations. Apples provide a juicy, tart contrast to the sweet, soft crumb of the cake, while almonds add a crunchy texture and a depth of flavor that elevates the whole dessert.

Ingredients for the Apple and Almond Cake

• Self-raising flour: 225g
• Baking powder: 1 level tsp
• Caster sugar: 225g
• Large eggs: 2
• Almond extract: 1/2 tsp
• Butter, melted: 150g
• Cooking apples, peeled and cored: 250-350g
• Flaked almonds: 25g

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven to a moderate temperature and preparing a deep cake tin by lightly greasing it.
2. Combine the dry ingredients with the eggs, almond extract, and melted butter in a bowl, mixing until well blended.
3. Pour half of the batter into the tin, then layer thickly sliced apples on top, focusing on the center.
4. Cover the apples with the remaining batter, ensuring it spreads evenly in the oven.
5. Finish by sprinkling flaked almonds over the top before baking until golden brown and the cake pulls away from the tin sides.

Storage and Reheating

To keep the cake fresh, store it at room temperature under a cake dome or wrapped in cling film for a few days. If you wish to keep it longer, wrap it well and freeze. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it at room temperature and reheat gently to restore its warmth and moist texture.

Nutritional Information

This cake offers a good balance of carbohydrates from the flour and sugar, protein from the eggs, and fats from the butter and almonds. However, specifics like calorie count and nutritional breakdown depend on serving sizes and specific ingredient choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use different types of apples? Yes, any cooking apple variety that holds up well to baking is suitable for this recipe.
• How can I ensure my cake is moist? Avoid overbaking and ensure your apples are not too thin to prevent them from drying out.

Enjoy this Apple and Almond Cake as a testament to Mary Berry's culinary expertise, perfect for serving warm with a dollop of ice cream or crème fraîche, or simply with a cup of tea​​​​.