The Hairy Bikers Apple Cake is a delightful fusion of traditional British dessert charm and the crisp, refreshing essence of apples. This creation, stemming from the culinary expertise of the British TV chefs known as the Hairy Bikers, promises a harmonious blend of flavors with every bite.
Ready to bake?
Follow this guide for the perfect apple cake.
What is Hairy Bikers Apple Cake?
The Hairy Bikers Apple Cake is a signature dessert from the famous British TV chef, the Hairy Bikers. It’s a moist cake layered with fresh apple slices, combining the traditional flavors of British baking with the natural sweetness of apples.
- Learn: The Basics of Cake Baking
Why You Love this Recipe
- Simplicity: Made with basic pantry ingredients without complex techniques.
- Transformation: Everyday ingredients evolve into an exquisite dessert.
- Starter: A dessert that evokes memories and delights guests.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 250g self-raising flour
- 125g butter, softened
- 225g caster sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
For the Topping:
- 50g butter
- 50g light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instruction to Make Hairy Bikers Apple Cake
The essence of this cake lies in its method.
Follow these steps, and you’re on your way to apple cake nirvana.
Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease a deep 20cm round cake tin.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the eggs and vanilla, ensuring they’re well incorporated.
- Fold in the flour gently, making sure not to overmix. Remember, the fluffiness of the cake is at stake!
- Layer the sliced apples at the base of the prepared tin.
- Pour the cake batter over the apples, smoothing the top.
Crafting the Topping:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Add in the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Drizzle this heavenly mixture over the cake batter.
Baking to Perfection:
Place the cake in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean. Is the aroma filling your kitchen? That’s pure happiness!
What Do I Serve With Hairy Bikers Apple Cake?
- Toppings: Options include clotted cream, caramel sauce, or custard.
- Cold Pairings: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
- Beverages: Pairs well with Earl Grey tea or dessert wines.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Apple Cake
- Apple Choice: Opt for firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
- Slice Uniformity: Ensure apples are sliced evenly for consistent baking.
- Oven Watch: Check the cake around the 35-minute mark to prevent over-baking.
- Pan Preparation: Properly grease and flour the pan for easy cake removal.
How do I freeze and store Hairy Bikers Apple Cake?
- Freezing: Cool, slice, and wrap individual portions. Store in a zip-lock bag in the freezer.
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container, remaining fresh for 3-4 days.
How do I reheat Hairy Bikers Apple Cake?
- From Frozen: Allow slices to thaw at room temperature for an hour.
- Microwave: Warm thawed slice for 20-30 seconds.
- Oven: Preheat to 175°C (350°F) and heat the cake for about 10 minutes.
Other Hairy Bikers Cake Recipes
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for the Hairy Bikers Apple Cake?
Yes, you can. While firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are often recommended for their ability to hold shape during baking, feel free to experiment with your favorite variety. However, avoid overly soft apples as they may make the cake too wet.
How long does the Hairy Bikers Apple Cake stay fresh?
If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the cake remains fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices as previously described.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts or raisins to the cake?
Absolutely! This Cake is quite versatile. Feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or even raisins to the batter for added texture and flavor. Just ensure you don’t overload it, so the cake maintains its structural integrity.
Why is my apple cake too dense or heavy?
A dense apple cake could result from overmixing the batter, which can overwork the gluten in the flour. Ensure you gently fold the flour into the wet ingredients for a lighter texture. Also, make sure your leavening agents (like baking powder or soda) are fresh.
Wrapping Up
In summary, the Hairy Bikers Apple Cake is a flavorful fusion of British baking and fresh apples. This guide provides you with insights and tips to perfect this delightful dessert. Happy baking!
