French Apple Cake Recipe

French Apple Cake Recipe

**Ingredients:**

– 4 large apples (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties for the best flavor)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
– 1/3 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon rum (optional)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Apples:**
– Peel and core the apples, then cut them into small cubes or thin slices. Set aside.

2. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan or a standard cake pan.

3. **Make the Batter:**
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
– In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well combined and slightly frothy.
– Gradually whisk in the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and rum (if using) until smooth.

4. **Combine Apples with Batter:**
– Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
– Fold the apple pieces into the batter until they are evenly distributed.

5. **Bake the Cake:**
– Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
– Bake for about 45-55 minutes, or until the