Few desserts balance freshness and sweetness as beautifully as an Apple Lemon Sponge Cake. This delightful creation combines the light, airy texture of sponge cake with the sweet juiciness of apples and the bright tang of lemon. The result is a cake that feels both comforting and refreshing, making it perfect for afternoon tea, special gatherings, or even as a simple family treat. The marriage of flavors is subtle yet memorable: the apples lend natural moisture, while the lemon zest and juice add a zippy brightness that keeps each bite lively.
Ingredients
To prepare this Apple Lemon Sponge Cake, you’ll need the following:
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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4 large eggs (room temperature)
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
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2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
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2 teaspoons lemon zest (freshly grated)
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2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
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Powdered sugar (for dusting)
This ingredient list is designed for a 9-inch round cake pan, though you can also use a springform pan for easier release.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the baking pan
Grease and line your cake pan with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly from the start.
2. Mix dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon if using. Set aside. This step guarantees an even rise and prevents clumps in your batter.
3. Beat eggs and sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until pale, thick, and almost doubled in volume. This step is crucial for sponge cakes, as the air you incorporate here is what gives the cake its signature lightness.
4. Add lemon and vanilla
Gently fold in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. These ingredients not only add fragrance but also cut through the sweetness with a touch of brightness.
5. Incorporate dry ingredients
Sift the flour mixture over the egg mixture in two parts. Using a spatula, fold it in gently with sweeping motions to avoid deflating the batter. The key to a perfect sponge cake is maintaining the airiness you created earlier.
6. Add butter
Drizzle the melted butter around the edges of the batter and carefully fold it in. Doing this step last ensures the butter doesn’t sink and weigh down the mixture.
7. Assemble with apples
Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Arrange a layer of apple slices evenly across the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth it out, then arrange a few more apple slices decoratively on the surface. This creates a lovely apple pattern once baked.
8. Bake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly springy to the touch.
9. Cool and finish
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, dust generously with powdered sugar. For extra indulgence, you can drizzle a light lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions
This Apple Lemon Sponge Cake is incredibly versatile. You can serve it plain with a light dusting of sugar for a casual treat, or dress it up with whipped cream and a few lemon zest curls for a more elegant presentation. It also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, especially if served slightly warm.
For breakfast or brunch, enjoy it alongside a cup of Earl Grey tea or freshly brewed coffee. The bright citrus notes from the lemon complement hot drinks perfectly.
Tips for Success
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Room temperature eggs whip up with much more volume, so don’t skip bringing them to room temperature before starting.
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Thin apple slices ensure even baking and prevent the fruit from sinking too much.
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Gentle folding of the flour and butter is key. Overmixing will knock out the air and make the cake dense.
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Flavor variations: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth or swapping the apples for pears if you’d like a softer, floral note.
Why This Recipe Works
The charm of this Apple Lemon Sponge Cake lies in the balance of textures and flavors. The sponge itself is airy and light but gains structure and moisture from the apples layered inside. The lemon adds a vibrant kick that keeps the cake from being overly sweet, while the butter lends richness without heaviness. Together, these elements create a cake that feels indulgent but not overwhelming—a treat that appeals to both traditional dessert lovers and those who prefer something a bit fresher and lighter.
Final Thoughts
An Apple Lemon Sponge Cake is one of those bakes that feels both classic and modern. Its simplicity allows the natural flavors of fruit and citrus to shine, while the sponge base provides a familiar and comforting texture. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, serving guests at afternoon tea, or just wanting to fill your home with the aroma of freshly baked cake, this recipe is sure to deliver.
