French Apple Raisin Cake

If you’re looking for the perfect apple cake to enjoy while watching an episode of Bridgerton, the French Apple Raisin Cake is the ideal recipe for you. This cake will make you feel like you’re savoring a carefully crafted dessert straight from the kitchens of English aristocratic families, perhaps served during an elegant afternoon tea. The contrast between the sweetness of the apples and the rich intensity of the raisins creates a flavor balance that’s just perfect to accompany the romantic and lavish atmosphere of the series.

Not only is this cake absolutely delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and a simple preparation process, it’s the ideal dessert to share with friends and family during a relaxing moment or a special evening. Its soft texture and irresistible fragrance make it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Making a French Apple Raisin Cake is a breeze: just a few steps and simple ingredients. Once you’ve tasted it, you’ll discover how this cake is true comfort food, perfect for warming the heart and making everyone feel at home.

Why is my cake dry?

To make sure your French Apple Raisin Cake stays soft and moist, there are a few key tricks to follow. One of the most common mistakes in baking is misjudging the oven temperature, and to avoid this, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on it. The temperature needs to be just right: if it’s too low, the cake will take too long to cook, which can dry it out. On the other hand, if the temperature is too high, you risk burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. To get a perfectly even and moist bake, follow the recipe’s temperature instructions carefully, and if needed, use an oven thermometer for added accuracy.

Another important tip is related to the preparation of the ingredients, especially the egg whites. Whipping the egg whites to stiff peaks might seem like a simple step, but it has a significant impact on the final texture of the cake. The tiny air bubbles trapped during whipping help give the cake its light and fluffy consistency. To achieve the best result, make sure your egg whites are whipped until they form firm peaks. If whipped properly, these air bubbles will help the cake rise evenly and keep it soft and tender. A useful trick is to whip the egg whites at room temperature, which makes them more stable.

By following these two simple tips — keeping a close eye on the oven temperature and whipping the egg whites correctly — you can create a French Apple Raisin Cake with the perfect texture, soft, moist, and incredibly flavorful.

Which apples are best for a French Apple Raisin Cake?

There isn’t a single apple variety that’s “perfect” for apple cake, but several options work exceptionally well due to their specific qualities. Some apples balance sweetness and acidity, while others maintain their structure during baking.

The most commonly recommended varieties are:

– Granny Smith: Likely the most cited apples in dessert recipes, they offer a tart flavor that balances well with sweetness.

– Jonathan: These apples are slightly sweet with a good balance of acidity, ideal for a more nuanced flavor profile.

– Honeycrisp: Known for their natural sweetness and juiciness, Honeycrisp apples are perfect if you prefer a less tart cake.

Ultimately, there’s no single variety that’s considered the best for apple cake, but the choice of apple can greatly influence the final outcome. Depending on your preference, you can opt for sweeter or tarter apples, or even mix different types to create a unique flavor balance.

How to make French Apple Raisin Cake

Peel, core, and slice the apples.

Next, get two mixing bowls: separate the egg yolks from the whites. Soften the butter in the microwave, let it cool, then mix it into the yolks along with the sugar. Stir until everything is well combined.

In another bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the egg mixture.

Soak the raisins in rum for 10 minutes, then drain and lightly coat them with flour. Whip the egg whites with a hand mixer until they form stiff peaks, then gently fold them into the batter to keep as much air as possible.

Grate some of the apples finely and mix them into the batter, then add the raisins. Transfer the batter to a parchment-lined pan—this will make removing the cake a breeze.

Slice the remaining apples and arrange them on top of the batter. Sprinkle with raw cane sugar for a crunchy, delicious crust. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the cake for about 40 minutes. If the top starts to brown too quickly, lower the temperature to 325°F (160°C).

To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Turn off the oven and let the cake cool inside for 5-7 minutes, then crack the oven door and let it sit for another 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely, and remember, it will taste even better the next day!

How To store it

To store a French Apple Raisin Cake, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it moist. At room temperature, it lasts for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to five days, or freeze it for up to three months.