Name: Easy French Apple Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3/4 cup (90g) all-purpose flour; 3/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons dark rum; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 tablespoons (113g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 3 apples, peeled, cored, and diced

Why You’ll Love Easy French Apple Cake Recipe

This cake marries simplicity and flavor in a way few desserts do.
It gets even better a day after baking as the flavors meld and the texture becomes more moist and satisfying.
No electric mixer is needed — just a bowl and a whisk.
A splash of rum adds subtle complexity, making this dessert feel special enough for guests yet easy enough for everyday baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
2 pounds apples (firm varieties, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
3 ½ tablespoons rum
¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch springform pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs for 1–2 minutes until foamy. Add the sugar, rum, and vanilla, and whisk again until combined.
Whisk in half of the flour mixture, followed by half of the melted butter. Repeat with the remaining flour and butter, mixing until the batter is smooth.
Gently fold the apple slices into the batter, ensuring each piece is coated.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then loosen the edges and remove from the pan. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: about 10 portions
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 60–70 minutes
Total time: around 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Alcohol-free version: Replace the rum with apple juice, cider, or milk for a similar richness without alcohol.
• Spiced version: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Apple mix: Use a blend of tart and sweet apples for added depth.
• Mini cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings; reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To freeze, slice the cooled cake, wrap each piece tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave individual slices for 15–20 seconds.

FAQs

What type of apples work best for French apple cake?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady hold their shape well and offer the best texture and flavor.

Can I use apple peel on this cake?

Yes, though traditionally peeled, you can leave the peel on for extra texture and color.

Is rum necessary in the recipe?

No. Rum adds flavor, but you can substitute it with apple juice, cider, or milk.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The top should be golden and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with moist crumbs.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, the flavor and texture improve after resting for a day, making it great for prepping in advance.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?

Yes, while not traditional, adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg adds a delicious seasonal twist.

What pan should I use for this cake?

A 10-inch springform pan is ideal for easy removal and a professional finish.

How should I store leftover cake?

Cover and refrigerate the cake. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I serve this cake?

Serve at room temperature, slightly warm, or chilled — plain or with whipped cream or ice cream.

Conclusion

Easy French Apple Cake is a timeless dessert that highlights the beauty of simple, quality ingredients. The combination of tender apples, a soft custard-like crumb, and hints of rum and vanilla creates a comforting yet refined treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy.