Curtis Stone’s Secret Ingredient Apple Custard Cake

This apple custard cake is a beautifully soft, rich dessert layered with tender apples and a creamy, custard-like texture. Infused with cinnamon and orange zest, every bite delivers warmth and depth of flavour.

It’s the perfect balance between a classic apple cake and a delicate custard dessert—ideal for gatherings or a comforting homemade treat.

What Makes This Apple Cake Special?

Unlike traditional apple cakes, this recipe creates a layered texture—light cake on top with a soft, custard-like apple base underneath. The addition of orange liqueur and zest elevates the flavour, giving it a subtle citrus note that complements the apples perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, custard-like texture
• Warm cinnamon and citrus flavours
• Moist and rich without being heavy
• Perfect for serving warm or chilled
• Great for entertaining or special occasions

Ingredients (Serves 8)

Apples & Base

• 20g unsalted butter
• 500–550g Granny Smith apples, sliced
• 2 tbsp Grand Marnier (or orange liqueur)

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups plain flour
• 1 cup caster sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup canola oil
• 1 cup full cream milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp orange zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Custard Layer

• 2 tbsp extra flour
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tbsp extra caster sugar

To Serve

• Icing sugar, for dusting
• 1 cup thickened cream
• 1 tbsp icing sugar

How to Make Apple Custard Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Pan

Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Grease a 23cm springform pan with butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Toss sliced apples with Grand Marnier and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

In another bowl, whisk oil, milk, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a smooth batter.

Step 4: Layer the Cake

Set aside 1 cup of batter and mix in extra flour.

Whisk egg yolks into the remaining batter, then fold in apples.

Pour apple mixture into the pan and spread evenly. Pour reserved batter on top.

Mix extra sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the cake.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 50 minutes or until golden and a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove sides and cool slightly before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Dust with icing sugar.

Whip cream with icing sugar until thick, then serve a generous dollop alongside each slice.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overmix the batter to keep it light
• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balance
• Press apples slightly into batter for even texture
• Let the cake rest before slicing for cleaner cuts
• Serve warm for the best flavour

Storage Tips

• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Freeze whole or sliced for up to 2–3 months
• Reheat gently before serving

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with whipped cream
• Pair with vanilla ice cream
• Drizzle with custard for extra richness

Final Thoughts

This apple custard cake is a standout dessert that combines the comfort of baked apples with a soft, custard-like finish. It’s simple enough for everyday baking but elegant enough for special occasions.

Once you try it, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.