There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm slice of Irish Apple Cake fresh from the oven. With its tender crumb, tart apple slices, and buttery streusel topping, this cake is a cozy classic that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
The hint of cinnamon in both the cake and the glaze brings out the natural sweetness of the apples, making each bite a perfect balance of soft, spiced, and slightly crisp textures.
Traditionally enjoyed in Ireland with a dollop of fresh cream, this cake is simple yet elegant, ideal for afternoon tea or as a rustic dessert.
It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee—or for an extra treat, serve it with Starbucks Sugar Cookie Cold Foam for a sweet, creamy contrast. And of course, a generous spoonful of whipped cream is always a good idea!
What’s so Special About This Dish?
- Classic & comforting – the perfect blend of apples, cinnamon, and buttery goodness.
- Incredibly moist – thanks to fresh apples and a touch of whole milk.
- Crispy streusel topping – adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
- Easy to make – simple ingredients, no complicated steps!
- Versatile – enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
Irish Apple Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Fork or pastry cutter
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Cooking spray
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Knife & cutting board
- Wire rack
- Small whisk or spoon
Ingredients
Streusel:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter cubed
Cake:
- cooking spray
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 large Granny Smith apples peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
Cinnamon Glaze:
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons whole milk
Instructions
- Make the streusel: Mix flour, sugar, oats, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in butter until crumbly, then chill.
- Prepare the cake batter: Beat butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Add to the wet mixture, then mix in milk.
- Assemble the cake: Spread batter into a greased 9-inch round pan. Layer apple slices on top.
- Add streusel topping: Evenly sprinkle the streusel over the apples.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make and drizzle glaze: Whisk confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, and milk until smooth, then drizzle over the cake before serving.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 494kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 68g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Sugar | 37g |
| Sodium | 294mg |
Tips for a Perfect Irish Apple Cake!
- Chill the Streusel – Keeping the butter cold ensures a crumbly, crisp topping. If it starts softening, pop it in the fridge before using.
- Room Temperature Ingredients – Let eggs, butter, and milk sit at room temp for about 30 minutes before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter with a better rise.
- Layer the Apples Well – Arrange the apple slices in an even layer so every bite has a bit of juicy apple. For extra flavor, toss them in a teaspoon of brown sugar and cinnamon before adding them to the batter.
- Toothpick Test – Since apples release moisture, the center may take longer to bake. Insert a toothpick near the middle—it should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Enhance the Glaze – For a richer glaze, swap milk for heavy cream or add a splash of maple syrup for extra warmth.
- Best Apple Choices – Granny Smiths provide a nice tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work well for a slightly sweeter cake.
Joe Miller is the passionate founder of Food Landscape Insight, where he shares his love for cooking and culinary experiences. Growing up in a family-run diner, Joe was immersed in the vibrant world of food from an early age. The kitchen became his canvas, and food, his way of storytelling.
Through years of experimentation and learning, Joe honed his skills and started his blog to inspire others to embrace the joy of cooking. Each recipe he shares is a blend of tradition, creativity, and the heartfelt memories that food brings to life, all with the aim of fostering a deeper connection to food.
