Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce

A traditional Irish apple cake with a cinnamon-sugar crust, filled with tender spiced apples and drizzled with a rich vanilla custard sauce—perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or a cozy dessert! This rustic cake is a delightful combination of soft, flavorful apples and a slightly crunchy exterior, complemented by the creamy custard sauce for an indulgent experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Irish Flavor – A traditional recipe that brings the comforting taste of Ireland to your kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or looking for a cozy dessert, this cake is ideal.
• Delightful Texture – A contrast of soft spiced apples, tender cake, and a crisp cinnamon-sugar crust.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an accessible homemade treat.
• Creamy Custard Sauce – The warm, silky vanilla custard perfectly complements the spiced apple cake.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• all-purpose flour
• baking powder
• salt
• cinnamon
• nutmeg
• unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• granulated sugar
• medium apples, peeled and chopped
• eggs
• whole milk
• vanilla extract

For the Custard Sauce:

• whole milk
• egg yolks
• granulated sugar
• vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients – In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Incorporate the Butter – Cut in the cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the sugar and chopped apples.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Combine the Mixtures – Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
6. Bake the Cake – Transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Prepare the Custard Sauce – Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
8. Temper the Eggs – In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
9. Thicken the Custard – Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until the custard thickens (avoid boiling). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
10. Serve – Let the cake cool slightly before slicing. Drizzle with warm custard sauce and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories: Approximately 340 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add Nuts – Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Use Different Apples – Try Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.
• Spice It Up – Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for a more robust spice profile.
• Make It Gluten-Free – Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Caramel Drizzle – Replace the custard with a caramel sauce for a richer dessert.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The custard should also be refrigerated separately.
• Freezing: The cake can be frozen (without custard) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes. Reheat custard over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.

FAQs

What type of apples are best for Irish apple cake?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best, as they hold their shape and provide a balanced sweetness.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature. Prepare the custard fresh or reheat it before serving.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Yes, peeling the apples ensures a softer texture in the cake. However, leaving the skins on can add a bit of chewiness.

Can I use a different type of milk for the custard?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer custard. Non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk can also work but may affect the texture.

Why is my custard sauce too runny?

The custard may not have been cooked long enough. Continue stirring over low heat until it thickens. Avoid boiling, as this can cause curdling.

Can I make the cake without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water).

What should I serve with Irish apple cake?

It pairs well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. The top should also be golden brown.

Can I use pre-ground nutmeg instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh nutmeg has a more robust flavor. If using ground nutmeg, stick to the measurement in the recipe.

Is this cake traditionally served with custard?

Yes, Irish apple cake is often accompanied by a custard sauce, though some prefer it plain or with whipped cream.

Conclusion

Irish Apple Cake with Custard Sauce is a warm, comforting dessert that embodies the flavors of Ireland. The spiced apples, buttery cake, and silky vanilla custard create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a homemade treat, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy it fresh from the oven, and savor the classic taste of this timeless dessert!