Irish Apple Cake

Irish apple cake is a comforting treat that carries a touch of nostalgia in every bite. This traditional Irish dessert has been a staple in Irish homes for generations, celebrated for its tender crumb and lightly spiced flavor that perfectly complements the sweet, juicy apples baked inside. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a slice of Irish heritage on a plate.

Perfect for St Patrick’s Day celebrations, this St Patrick’s day dessert brings a homemade charm to your holiday table. The aroma of cinnamon and freshly baked apples filling your kitchen is enough to make anyone pause and savor the moment. Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or enjoying a quiet afternoon tea, this Irish dessert for St Patrick’s day offers both comfort and a festive touch.

What makes this recipe stand out is how approachable it is. Unlike some desserts that require precise techniques or rare ingredients, this easy Irish apple cake can be whipped up with pantry staples and a few crisp apples. Even beginner bakers will find it straightforward, yet the results are deeply satisfying.

Serving it slightly warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream brings out the best flavors, making it a versatile addition to any celebration. And while it shines as a St Patrick’s day apple cake, it’s just as delightful for any casual weekend dessert. The balance of sweet apples, tender cake, and a hint of spice makes it impossible not to enjoy slice after slice.

Why You’ll Love It

• A Taste of Tradition: Every bite of this Irish apple cake carries the essence of a traditional Irish dessert, connecting you to centuries of cozy kitchen memories. It’s like enjoying a little piece of Ireland in your own home.
• Perfect for St Patrick’s Day: This St Patrick’s day apple cake isn’t just festive—it’s a conversation starter. The golden crust, tender apple filling, and subtle spices make it the ideal centerpiece for any holiday table.
• Simple Yet Impressive: You don’t need advanced baking skills to make this easy Irish apple cake. Despite its simplicity, it delivers a show-stopping result that looks as good as it tastes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with butter or cream, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even drizzle with a bit of caramel. This Irish dessert adapts beautifully to any mood or occasion.
• Aromatic and Inviting: The smell of cinnamon, baked apples, and sugar wafting through your kitchen is irresistible—this cake turns your home into a welcoming, cozy haven the moment it comes out of the oven.

Ingredient List

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 3 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 3 medium apples)

For the Topping:

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Ingredient Notes

• I always use Granny Smith apples for this cake—it gives a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Don’t skip the buttermilk! It keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Unsalted butter is key here—you control the sweetness and richness better than with salted butter.
• I like using freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg; it makes the aroma so much more inviting than pre-mixed spice.
• Make sure your apples are chopped evenly so each bite has a little bit of fruit.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients; I love using glass bowls so I can see everything clearly.
• Hand or stand mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless; my stand mixer is a lifesaver for this step.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accuracy, especially for spices.
• Peeler and knife – To prep the apples evenly; I always use my trusty paring knife for precision.
• 8-inch or 9-inch cake pan – Perfect size for even baking; I like using a non-stick pan to make slicing easy.
• Spatula – For folding in the apples gently; a silicone one works beautifully.
• Cooling rack – Ensures the cake cools evenly and avoids soggy bottoms.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your cake pan with butter or non-stick spray.
• Peel, core, and chop the apples into roughly ½-inch pieces. Try to keep them similar in size so they bake evenly.
• Measure out all your dry ingredients and spices. Having everything ready makes the baking process smoother.

Pro Tip: I like to line the bottom of my cake pan with parchment paper—it makes removing the cake super easy and keeps the bottom from sticking.

---

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Whisk them together thoroughly so the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Pro Tip: Whisk continuously to prevent clumps—this ensures your cake has an even flavor and texture.

---

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes with a hand or stand mixer.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in the vanilla extract.

Pro Tip: Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This creates a light, airy texture in your cake.

---

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
• Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix or your cake could be dense.

---

Step 5: Fold in the Apples

• Using a spatula, fold the chopped apples into the batter until evenly distributed.
• Be gentle to avoid breaking the apple pieces too much.

---

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter in the pan.

---

Step 7: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Check around 40 minutes—ovens vary, so keep an eye on the cake to prevent over-browning.

Pro Tip: If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the cake with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.

---

Step 8: Cool and Serve

• Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
• Carefully transfer to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing.
• Serve slightly warm with butter, cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Choose the right apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best—they hold their shape and balance sweetness with a bit of tartness.
• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth, well-emulsified batter.
• Don’t overmix: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the cake tender.
• Even apple pieces: Chop apples into similar sizes so every bite is consistent and bakes evenly.
• Check for doneness: Start testing your cake around 40 minutes; a toothpick should come out clean, but a few moist crumbs are okay—it keeps the cake moist.
• Let it cool properly: Cooling slightly before slicing ensures the cake holds its shape and doesn’t crumble.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Butter substitute: Use coconut oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version—adds a subtle twist in flavor.
• Flour swap: Whole wheat flour can replace half of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier taste and heartier texture.
• Apple variety: Try using a mix of apples like Gala and Pink Lady for extra sweetness and complexity.
• Spice mix: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a warmer, more aromatic cake.
• Sweetener options: Brown sugar can replace granulated sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• Topping twist: Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top with the cinnamon sugar for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving this Irish apple cake slightly warm with a pat of butter—it melts perfectly into the tender crumb.
• Pair a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that’s perfect for St Patrick’s Day.
• Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top for extra sweetness and festive flair—it’s always a hit with guests.
• Enjoy it alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee in the afternoon; it makes for the coziest tea-time treat.
• For a lighter option, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon—it feels festive without being too rich.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Room temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days; the cake stays soft and flavorful.
• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days—bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes.
• Tip: Adding a tiny pat of butter while reheating enhances the moistness and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Granny Smith is classic for its tartness, but Honeycrisp, Gala, or Pink Lady work beautifully too. Just make sure the apples hold their shape when baked.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for plant-based butter or coconut oil, and use a dairy-free milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice instead of buttermilk. It still comes out tender and flavorful.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Avoid overbaking to keep it soft.

Can I prepare this cake in advance?

Definitely! You can make it a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature, or even freeze it for longer storage. Just warm slices slightly before serving.

Can I add nuts or extra toppings?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top with the cinnamon sugar add a lovely crunch. You could also drizzle caramel or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Is this cake suitable for St Patrick’s Day?

Absolutely! This easy Irish apple cake is a traditional Irish dessert that fits perfectly as a St Patrick’s day dessert. It’s festive, comforting, and full of flavor.

---

Did you try this Irish apple cake? Let me know in the comments how it turned out—I’d love to hear your baking success stories!