If you are looking for a delicious and easy apple cake recipe, you have come to the right place. In this blog post, I will show you how to make a Dorset apple cake, a traditional British dessert that is moist, spiced, and full of apple chunks. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to serve it warm with custard or cream or enjoy it cold as a snack.
In this blog post, I will share with you Mary Berry’s spiced Dorset apple cake recipe, along with some tips and tricks to make it even better. I will also answer some frequently asked questions about this cake, such as how to store it, how to freeze it, and how to adapt it for different dietary needs. By the end of this post, you will be able to make your own Dorset apple cake with confidence and enjoy it with your loved ones.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
What is Dorset apple cake?
Dorset apple cake is a type of apple cake that originated in the county of Dorset, in the south-west of England. It is also known as Somerset apple cake, as it is popular in the neighboring county of Somerset as well. Dorset apple cake is made with self-raising flour, butter, sugar, eggs, milk, cinnamon, and apples. The apples are peeled, cored, and diced, and then mixed with the cake batter. Some recipes also add sultanas or raisins for extra sweetness and texture. The cake is baked in a deep round or square tin, and sprinkled with demerara sugar for a crunchy topping.
- Learn: Basics of Cake Baking
What is Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake?
Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake is a traditional British apple cake that is moist, spiced, and full of apple chunks. It is one of the signature recipes of Mary Berry, the queen of baking and a former judge on The Great British Bake Off. She has been making this cake for decades, and it never fails to impress her family and friends. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to serve it warm with custard or cream or enjoy it cold as a snack.
Why is Dorset apple cake so good?
You will love this recipe because:
- It is easy to make. You only need a few basic ingredients and a cake tin to make this scrumptious treat.
- It is versatile. You can enjoy this cake in many ways, depending on your mood and preference.
- It is moist and tender. The apples in this cake add moisture and softness, making it very pleasant to eat.
- It is delicious. This cake has a simple but satisfying taste, that appeals to both adults and children.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake
To make Dorset apple cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 225g unsalted butter, diced and chilled, plus extra for the tin
- 225g light muscovado sugar
- 300g self-raising flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp full-fat or semi-skimmed milk
- 550g cooking apples, such as Bramley or Granny Smith
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tbsp demerara sugar (optional)
- Icing sugar, to dust (optional)
Equipment
You will also need the following equipment:
- A 20cm square or round cake tin
- Baking parchment
- A large mixing bowl
- A wooden spoon or an electric hand whisk
- A small bowl
- A sharp knife
- A chopping board
- A skewer
- A wire rack
- A sieve
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake
Here are the steps to make Dorset apple cake:
Oven Preheating and Tin Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Grease and line your cake tin with parchment paper.
Batter Preparation
Combine butter, sugar, flour, baking powder, and half the cinnamon in a large bowl. Beat until you achieve a smooth batter, adding milk to adjust consistency.
Apple Preparation
On a chopping board, quarter, peel, core, and dice the apples. Mix them with lemon juice to prevent discoloration.
Layering and Assembling
Spread half the batter in the prepared tin. Arrange a layer of apples and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon. Cover with the remaining batter and top with apple pieces. Optionally, add demerara sugar for a crunchy top.
Baking the Cake
Bake for 40-50 minutes until golden. Test with a skewer for doneness.
Cooling and Finishing Touches
Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once cool, optionally dust with icing sugar.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake?
You can serve this cake with:
- Custard. This is a classic and comforting combination that will warm you up on a cold day.
- Cream. This is a simple and elegant option that will add some richness and contrast to the cake.
- Ice cream. This is a refreshing and indulgent choice that will cool you down on a hot day.
- Fresh or dried fruits. This is a healthy and colorful option that will add some flavor and texture to the cake.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake
Here are some pro tips to make the perfect Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake:
- Use good quality butter and eggs, as they will affect the flavor and texture of the cake.
- Use cooking apples, such as Bramley or Granny Smith, as they have a tart and acidic taste that will balance the sweetness of the cake.
- Slice the apples very thinly, as this will ensure that they cook evenly and quickly.
- Add some lemon juice to the apples, as this will prevent them from browning and add some freshness and zing to the cake.
- Sprinkle some demerara sugar over the top of the cake, if you like some extra crunch and caramelization.
- Dust some icing sugar over the cake, if you like some extra sweetness and decoration.
Variations of Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake
The beauty of Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Cake lies in its versatility.
Here are some creative ways to add your own twist to this classic recipe:
- For Extra Sweetness and Texture: Enhance the cake’s sweetness and texture by incorporating sultanas or raisins. This addition infuses each bite with a delightful chewiness.
- Adding Crunch and Nuttiness: Introduce an element of crunch by adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds. This not only adds a nutty flavor but also a contrasting texture to the softness of the cake.
- Indulgent Touch with Chocolate Chips: For a richer, more indulgent flavor, consider stirring in some chocolate chips. They melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of chocolatey goodness.
- Spice Variations for Warmth: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom. Each spice brings its own unique warmth and aroma, transforming the cake’s flavor profile.
- Flour Alternatives for Nutritional Variety: Adapt the cake to different dietary needs by using alternative flours such as wholemeal, spelt, or gluten-free varieties. This not only caters to dietary restrictions but also adds a new dimension to the cake’s texture.
How do I store Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake Leftovers?
To store Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake leftovers, you can:
- Room Temperature Storage: For short-term storage, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It remains fresh and delicious for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator Storage for Longer Freshness: If you need to store the cake for a bit longer, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for up to 5 days.
- Freezing for Long-term Storage: For storing the cake over several weeks or months, wrap it in cling film or foil and freeze it. Properly stored, the cake can be enjoyed for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
How do I reheat Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake Leftovers?
To reheat Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake leftovers, you can:
- Leave them at room temperature for a few hours, or in the fridge overnight, to defrost them.
- Reheat them in the oven at 160°C/140°C fan/gas 3 for 10 to 15 minutes, or until warm and crisp.
- Reheat them in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds, or until warm and soft.
Nutrition value (per serving):
- Calories: 310 to 390 kcal
- Fat: 13 to 18 g
- Saturates: 7 to 13 g
- Carbs: 46 to 58 g
- Sugars: 26 to 36 g
- Fiber: 2 to 3 g
- Protein: 4 to 6 g
- Salt: 0.3 to 0.5 g
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Frequently asked questions about Dorset apple cake
Here are some frequently asked questions about Dorset apple cake, and their answers:
What kind of apples should I use for Dorset apple cake?
You should use cooking apples, such as Bramley or Granny Smith, as they have a tart and acidic taste that will balance the sweetness of the cake. They also have a firm and crisp texture that will hold their shape and not turn mushy when baked.
How can I make Dorset apple cake gluten-free or vegan?
Gluten-Free Variation:
- Replace traditional self-raising flour with gluten-free self-raising flour. If unavailable, mix gluten-free plain flour with baking powder.
- Alternative flours like buckwheat or spell can be used for different textures and nutritional profiles.
Vegan Adaptation:
- Swap butter for a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk.
- Replace eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or use apple sauce for binding and moisture.
Final Words
Dorset apple cake, a classic treat in British baking, is both moist and richly spiced. Its simplicity, requiring basic ingredients and straightforward preparation, makes it a favorite. Versatile in serving options, it pairs well with custard, cream, or simply a cup of tea. This recipe, a hallmark of Mary Berry’s baking expertise, is perfect for any occasion, especially during the apple-abundant autumn season. With its long-standing popularity, it continues to delight families and impress guests.