Dorset Apple Cake

Ingredients

In the original British cuisine, the Duff is a steamed suet pudding. However, in the cuisine of Dorset, the Duff has evolved into a cake-like dessert known as Dorset Apple Cake. This adaptation replaces the suet with butter, resulting in a lighter and more tender texture. Additionally, the Dorset version incorporates local apples and spices, giving it a distinct flavor profile that reflects the region's culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Duff, so you can check it out.

• 225g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour 225g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 115g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened 115g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 175g (¾ cup) granulated sugar 175g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 50g (½ cup) chopped walnuts (optional) 50g (½ cup) chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 28g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. 6.
   Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts (if using).
7. 7.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
8. 8.
   Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. 9.
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose locally grown apples such as Cox's Orange Pippin or Bramley apples for an authentic Dorset flavor.
• Walnuts — For a nutty crunch, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the cake batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle the top of the cake with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking.
• Serve the Dorset Apple Cake warm with a dollop of clotted cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
• If you prefer a softer texture, you can peel the apples before chopping them.

Serving advice

Serve the Dorset Apple Cake as a delightful dessert or enjoy it with a cup of tea for a cozy afternoon treat. It can also be served as a sweet breakfast option.

Presentation advice

Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also garnish it with a few apple slices or a sprig of fresh mint.