apple charlotte cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best apple charlotte cake recipe

I am so excited to share with you my apple charlotte cake recipe, a classic dessert that never fails to impress. This traditional French dessert has been a staple in many European households for centuries, and for good reason – it’s a masterclass in textures and flavors.

The combination of tender apples, crunchy cake, and creamy custard is a match made in heaven. As a busy mom, I love that this recipe is easy to make and can be adapted to suit any occasion or dietary need.

My kids devour it in minutes, and I’m sure your family will love it just as much. The best part?

It’s surprisingly healthy, too – with only 10g of sugar per serving (most of which comes from the apples!) , this cake is a guilt-free treat for the whole family to enjoy.

Apple Charlotte Cake

4.7 from 1685 votes

A classic French dessert featuring layers of buttery bread slices filled with spiced caramelized apples. This rustic cake is baked until golden and crisp, then served warm for a comforting treat.

Prep Time25 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 5 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Apple Filling

6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and sliced
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Charlotte

12 slices white bread, crusts removed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Melt 1/4 cup butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3Add the sliced apples, 1/3 cup sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until the apples are tender and the juices have thickened slightly.
5Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
6While the apples cool, brush both sides of each bread slice with the melted butter.
7Cut each slice into two triangles for easier arrangement.
8Line the bottom of the cake pan with overlapping bread triangles, covering the entire surface.
9Press the bread gently to form an even layer.
10Spoon the cooled apple mixture over the bread layer, spreading it evenly.
11Cover the apples with another layer of buttered bread triangles, arranging them in a decorative pattern if desired.
12Sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar for a caramelized crust.
13Place the cake pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
14Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
15The bread should be crisp and the apples soft.
16Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

8-inch round cake pan or springform pan
Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Pastry brush
Baking sheet
Spatula
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 240mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 28g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use brioche or challah bread instead of white bread. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. The cake can be assembled a few hours ahead and baked just before serving.

Watch Video Of How Apple Charlotte Cake Works

This apple charlotte cake recipe is always a hit at family gatherings and special occasions.

Not only is it deliciously moist and flavorful, but it’s also incredibly easy to make ahead of time – simply assemble the layers the night before and refrigerate until serving.

Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty reheated in the oven or microwaved until warm.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Charlotte Cake

Q: What is an apple charlotte cake?

An apple charlotte cake is a type of dessert that originated in France, where it’s known as ‘Charlotte aux pommes.’ It’s essentially a layer cake made with caramelized apples, sponge cake, and custard cream.

Q: How do I make an apple charlotte cake?

To make an apple charlotte cake, start by caramelizing some sliced apples in butter until they’re tender and golden brown. Then, layer these apples with sponge cake and custard cream in a large serving dish.

Q: Can I use any type of apples for this recipe?

The best apples for this recipe are firm, sweet varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious. Avoid using mealy or overly sweet apples like Red Delicious or McIntosh.

Q: Is it possible to make an apple charlotte cake without custard cream?

While traditional recipes call for custard cream, you can easily substitute it with whipped cream or even Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter dessert.

Q: How do I store leftover apple charlotte cake?

Store leftover apple charlotte cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to two months – simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.

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