Mary Berry’s Apple Crumble Cake is a delightful blend of moist sponge, juicy apples, and a crunchy crumble topping, making it an exemplary dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, a family gathering, or just in the mood for a comforting treat, this recipe is designed to impress.
This cake serves 8-10 people and typically requires about 1 to 1.5 hours to prepare and bake.
What is Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake?
Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake is a British-inspired dessert that combines a soft vanilla sponge, layers of tart apples, and a rich, buttery crumble topping into one irresistible treat.
Other Crumble Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for celebrations, holidays, or just a cozy night in.
- Deliciously Moist: Ensures a moist cake with the perfect texture every time.
- Crowd Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike for its sweet, familiar flavors.
Useful Equipment
- Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing the cake and crumble mixtures.
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand): To cream the butter and sugar until fluffy and light.
- Sieve: For sifting flour and baking powder to avoid lumps in the batter.
- 23cm (9-inch) round springform cake tin: Ideal for easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Peeler and corer: To prepare the apples.
- Knife and chopping board: For slicing the apples.
- Measuring spoons and cups: To accurately measure your ingredients.
- Spatula: To fold ingredients gently and scrape the batter into the tin.
- Wire rack: For cooling the cake after baking.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 140g unsalted butter, softened
- 140g caster sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 140g self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
For the Crumble Topping:
- 100g plain flour
- 85g butter, chilled and diced
- 50g demerara sugar
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 20cm round cake tin with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the caster sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder together and gently fold into the creamed mixture. Add the milk and mix until smooth.
- Arrange the Apples: Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Arrange the apple slices over the batter, slightly pressing them in.
Step 2: Making the Crumble Topping:
- Mix Flour and Butter: In a separate bowl, mix the plain flour and chilled butter. Rub them together with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Add Sugar: Stir in the demerara sugar to the flour and butter mixture.
- Apply the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple layer.
Step 3: Baking:
- Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake?
Accompanying this delightful dessert with the right sides can enhance the overall experience.
Here are some suggestions:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice, the creaminess complements the warm cake beautifully.
- Custard: Pour warm custard over your slice for a traditional British dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy touch to each bite.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For a savory twist, serve with a slice of sharp cheddar, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake
Achieving the perfect Apple Crumble Cake is easier with a few professional tips:
- Ensure Ingredients Are at Room Temperature: This helps the ingredients mix more uniformly, resulting in a better texture.
- Do Not Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Arrange Apple Slices Evenly: This provides a consistent flavor and texture in every slice.
- Check doneness with a Skewer: Insert a skewer into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when the cake is baked through.
Variations of Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake
Customizing this cake can make it suitable for any taste or occasion:
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans in the crumble topping for added crunch.
- Spice It Up: Mix cinnamon or nutmeg into the apple layers for a spiced flavor.
- Berry Delight: Swap half the apples for mixed berries for a tangy twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour in both cakes and crumble mixtures to accommodate dietary restrictions.
How do I Store Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake Leftovers?
Proper storage of your apple crumble cake will ensure it stays fresh and delicious for longer.
Here are some effective methods:
- Room Temperature Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: Wrap the cake in cling film or store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for Extended Storage: Wrap the cake slices individually in cling film and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake Leftovers?
Reheating your apple crumble cake can bring back its delightful warmth and texture.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave for Quick Reheating: For a quick option, microwave a slice on high for 30-40 seconds.
- Maintain Moisture: Cover the cake with aluminum foil while reheating in the oven to prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 5g
FAQs
Can I Make Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this cake a day in advance. Bake the cake as directed, allow it to cool completely, and then cover it tightly with cling film or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Add the icing sugar just before serving to maintain the best texture and appearance.
What Type of Apples Should I Use for Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake?
The best apples for this cake are tart varieties such as Granny Smith or Bramley. These apples hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet crumble topping.
Is Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake Suitable for Freezing?
Absolutely, this cake freezes very well. Wrap the fully cooled cake or individual slices in cling film and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
How Can I Make Mary Berry Apple Crumble Cake Vegan?
To make this cake vegan, replace the eggs with an equal amount of apple sauce or a commercial egg replacer. Use plant-based butter and a suitable alternative for the dairy ingredients. Be sure to check that all your ingredients are certified vegan.
Final Words
This Apple Crumble Cake recipe brings together simplicity and elegance in each bite. The softness of the cake combined with the crispiness of the crumble creates a harmony of textures that’s sure to delight anyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. So why wait? Treat yourself and your loved ones to this exquisite dessert today.
Happy baking!