Gâteau de Pommes Grand-Mère: A Rustic, French Apple Cake Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of homemade cake, especially when it’s a recipe passed down through generations. Gâteau de Pommes Grand-Mère, or Grandmother’s Apple Cake, is one such recipe that holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, my grandmother would whip up this delightful cake every autumn when the apples were ripe for picking. The warm aroma of cinnamon and baked apples would fill the house, creating a cozy atmosphere that felt like a warm hug. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a cherished memory, a taste of home, and a reminder of the love that goes into cooking for family. Today, I want to share this rustic French apple cake recipe with you, so you can create your own memories around the table.
Gâteau de Pommes Grand-Mère – Grandmother's Apple Cake
A rustic French apple cake featuring tender apple slices baked into a moist, buttery cake with a hint of vanilla, reminiscent of traditional family recipes.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 40 min | Total: 1 min
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
- 2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a larger bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar together until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and rum, if using.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the sliced apples until they are evenly coated with the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 calories
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 32g
- Protein: 3g
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Facebook PinterestWhy This Recipe Works
Gâteau de Pommes Grand-Mère stands out for several reasons:
- Simple Ingredients: This cake uses basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and eggs, making it accessible for anyone to bake. The star ingredient, apples, can be sourced from local orchards or even your backyard.
- Rustic Charm: Unlike many polished desserts, this cake embraces a rustic aesthetic. It doesn’t need to be perfectly shaped or frosted; its charm lies in its homemade appearance and hearty texture.
- Versatile Flavor: The flavor profile of this cake is incredibly versatile. You can use different types of apples, add nuts, or even incorporate spices like nutmeg for a unique twist.
- Memorable Experience: Baking this cake is a sensory experience. The smell of apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will evoke nostalgia and create a warm atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves about 8 people and takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare, with a cooking time of 45 minutes.
- 4 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Toss them with a sprinkle of cinnamon and set aside.
- Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually add the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Incorporate Apples: Fold in the prepared apple slices, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar if desired.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple varieties for varied flavors. A mix of tart and sweet apples can create a more complex taste.
- Texture Boost: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft apples.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Storage: This cake keeps well for several days in an airtight container, making it perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- Freshly whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- A cup of hot tea or coffee
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Absolutely! Pears or peaches can be a delicious alternative, but adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
How do I know when the cake is done? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be sure to check the blend’s instructions for best results.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
Gâteau de Pommes Grand-Mère is more than just a cake; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Its simplicity and rustic charm make it a perfect dessert for both casual family dinners and festive occasions. I love this recipe because it embodies the essence of home cooking—simple, heartfelt, and delicious. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own memories around the table.
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn! I invite you to try making Gâteau de Pommes Grand-Mère and share your experience. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your
Gâteau de Pommes Grand-Mère (Grandmother's Apple Cake)
Ingredients
- 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Freshly whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- A cup of hot tea or coffee
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Toss them with a sprinkle of cinnamon and set aside.
- Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually add the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Incorporate Apples: Fold in the prepared apple slices, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar if desired.
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