Apple Chai Spiced Sponge Cake
Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this Apple Chai Spiced Sponge Cake is the perfect treat for cozy afternoons or special gatherings. Infused with the sweet, spiced notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and coriander, paired with the natural tartness of fresh apples, this cake is a delightful blend of autumnal flavors. Its light, airy texture, thanks to the fluffy sponge, makes it a wonderful dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting at the same time.
Equipment
- 8in Round Cake Pan
- Electric Hand Mixer or Countertop
Ingredients
- 1-2 Apples
- 1 tbsp. Lemon Juice
- 2 tsp. Cinnamon divided
- 1 cup Flour
- 1 tsp. Baking Powder
- 1/4 tsp. Salt
- 4 large Eggs
- 1 cup Sugar
- 2 tsp. Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 cup Butter melted
- 1 tsp. All Spice
- 1 tsp. Ground Ginger
- 1 tsp. Coriander
- 1/2 tsp. Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350F
- Then peel and thinly slicing your apples. Place the slices in a bowl, then toss them with a little lemon juice and 1tsp. of cinnamon1-2 Apples, 1 tbsp. Lemon Juice, 2 tsp. Cinnamon
- In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, allspice, ground ginger, cardamom, and a pinch of pepper.1 cup Flour, 1 tsp. Baking Powder, 1/4 tsp. Salt, 1 tsp. All Spice, 1 tsp. Ground Ginger, 1 tsp. Coriander, 1/2 tsp. Ground Black Pepper, 2 tsp. Cinnamon
- Next, in another bowl, beat your eggs and sugar on medium-high speed for about 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.4 large Eggs, 1 cup Sugar
- Once it's ready, add the vanilla extract and cooled melted butter (ensuring it’s not too hot, as you don’t want to cook the eggs). Beat the mixture for an additional 1 to 2 minutes on medium-high speed until everything is well incorporated.2 tsp. Vanilla Extract, 1/4 cup Butter
- Now, carefully fold in your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, until no flour mixture remain. Be gentle as you combine them to maintain the airiness of the batter.
- Grease a round cake pan and pour half of the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Next, layer in your thinly sliced apples on top of the batter for the first layer. Pour the remaining batter over the apples, spreading it gently. Finally, top the cake with the remaining apple slices. (see above photos in blog post for reference)
- Bake the cake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow it to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy!
Notes
Storage Tips For This Recipe
- Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within 2-3 days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its moisture and softness. Just make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Refrigeration: If you want to extend its shelf life, you can store the cake in the fridge. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. It should stay fresh for up to 5-6 days when refrigerated.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. To do so, slice it into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave the slices at room temperature for a few hours or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Reheating: If you prefer the cake warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or place them in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes. You can also enjoy it cold, as the flavors tend to develop even more after a day or two!
Common FAQ's Related to This Recipe
- Can I use any type of apple for this cake?
While you can use any apple variety, it’s best to use apples that are firm and slightly tart, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape well when baked and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tang. - Can I substitute the butter with something else?
You can substitute the butter with vegetable oil or a non-dairy butter alternative if you need a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cake. - Can I make this cake in a different pan shape or size?
Yes, you can use a different pan shape or size. If you use a smaller pan, the cake may rise higher and need slightly less baking time. A larger pan will result in a thinner cake and may require a longer baking time. Just keep an eye on it as it bakes.