Apple Cinnamon Cake with Strawberry Purée

Looking for a dessert that bridges the gap between seasons, combining the warmth of autumn and the freshness of summer? This Apple Cinnamon Cake with Strawberry Purée is the perfect blend of cozy spices and fruity sweetness. The soft cake, infused with diced apples, is elevated by a luscious strawberry purée that adds both flavor and visual appeal. Whether for a casual afternoon treat or a dinner party showstopper, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Apple Cinnamon Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 3 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and finely diced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Strawberry Purée:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For Garnish (optional):

• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Fresh strawberries or apple slices, for decoration

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Purée

• Blend the Strawberries: In a blender, combine the fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
• Strain the Purée: For a smoother consistency, strain the purée through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
• Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and finely dice the apples. Toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
• Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract.
• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Be careful not to overmix.
• Fold in the Apples: Gently fold the diced apples into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

• Pour the Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
• Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

• Drizzle with Strawberry Purée: Once the cake is fully cooled, generously drizzle the strawberry purée over the top, letting it cascade down the sides for a visually appealing presentation.
• Optional Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar and decorate with fresh strawberries or apple slices for an extra touch of elegance.

Why This Cake is Irresistible

• A Blend of Seasons: The warm cinnamon and apple flavors evoke autumn, while the vibrant strawberry purée adds a hint of summer freshness, making this cake ideal year-round.
• Texture Delight: The cake’s soft crumb is beautifully contrasted by the slight crunch from the apples.
• Simple Elegance: The strawberry purée provides a stunning and natural decoration, ensuring that this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fruits, like blueberries for the purée or a caramel drizzle for a richer touch.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Cake with Strawberry Purée brings together the best of fruity and spicy flavors in a deliciously soft cake. Whether served as a light dessert or a treat with tea, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The fresh strawberry purée enhances the warm spices and soft apples, ensuring each bite is as delightful as it is beautiful.

Share this recipe with friends and enjoy a slice of this sweet, seasonal masterpiece!