
I stumbled upon this treat one rainy Sunday when I wanted to use up apples from my garden. This cake has become my go-to comfort food ever since. When it's baking, the whole house fills with an amazing smell that brings everyone running to the kitchen. What makes it so special is how the crispy top contrasts with the soft, apple-filled center.
A cake that brings folks together
What I love most about this is how straightforward it is. You don't need fancy cooking skills to make this dessert, yet it wows everyone each time. The apples get soft in the oven while the batter turns golden. My little trick is adding rum to wake up all the flavors. Even my picky kids always ask for seconds.
Easy shopping list
- The basics: A creamy plain yogurt, white sugar, a splash of my favorite amber rum, and a tiny bit of sea salt
- For just the right feel: My go-to baking powder, sifted flour, unsalted butter, and two fresh eggs
- The main attractions: Juicy, ripe apples and my packet of vanilla sugar that makes everything smell wonderful
The wonder happens in a few steps
- First, get things hot
- My oven hums at 180°C while I get everything ready.
- The game-changing batter
- I whip my eggs with sugar until they're almost white and fluffy. Then I mix in yogurt, flour with baking powder, and finally melted butter. A dash of rum and we're all set.
- Time for apples to shine
- After peeling them, I slice them thin. I gently fold them into my batter.
- Oven magic
- Everything goes into my buttered pan for a 40-minute transformation. I keep an eye on the golden color - that's how I know it's done.
- Final moments
- I let my cake cool a bit before taking it out of the pan. Waiting is tough because it smells so good.
My own special twists
For those who don't want alcohol, I use pure vanilla extract instead. Sometimes I throw in golden raisins soaked in rum or grated lemon for freshness. My guilty pleasure is eating it while it's still warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top.

Little extras that make all the difference
I love pouring homemade caramel over it or adding some berries for tartness. On Sundays I enjoy it with my favorite Earl Grey tea, but when friends drop by we break out the local craft cider. It's pure indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Which apples work best?
Golden or Reinette apples are great options because they stay firm when baked. Go for firm apples for the best texture.
- → Can I skip the rum?
Sure! Use vanilla extract or apple juice instead. For kids, just leave out the rum or swap it with apple juice.
- → How do I check if it’s done?
Stick a knife in the middle—it should come out clean. The top will look golden and feel crunchy.
- → How should I store it?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It stays soft and the top remains crispy if stored well.
- → Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, it freezes perfectly for up to 2 months. Let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.