Rose Apple Cake

This apple rose tea cake is a charming addition to any teatime spread! With delicate, thin apple slices arranged like blooming roses and a soft, buttery cake base, it’s a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. A light honey syrup adds a touch of sweetness, making each slice perfectly moist and flavorful. Enjoy a slice with a warm cup of tea for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Apple Rose:

- 4-5 red apples

- 75g light brown sugar

- 2 1/2 tbsp lemon juice

- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon

- 60g unsalted butter, melted

Cake:

- 290g all-purpose flour

- 3/4 tsp salt

- 3 tsp baking powder

- 3 medium eggs

- 2 tsp vanilla extract

- 130g unsalted butter, room temperature

- 190g granulated sugar

- 120ml whole milk, room temperature

Honey Syrup:

- 2 tbsp honey

- 2 tbsp sugar

- 2 tbsp water

Icing Sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Thinly slice apples after halving and coring. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and melted butter. Toss in apples and microwave for 2–2 ½ minutes until soft but intact. Set aside.

2. Preheat oven to 155°C (fan). Line a 9-inch round springform pan with parchment paper on the base and sides.

3. Sift flour, salt, and baking powder together.

4. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar for 2 minutes until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, mixing after each addition.

5. Gradually add the flour mixture and milk, alternating between them and ending with flour. Mix until just combined, do not over mix as the cake will not be fluffy!

6. Pour batter into the prepared pan. Arrange apple slices upright in concentric circles from the outside in, slightly pressing them into the batter. Roll one slice and place it in the center.

7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

8. Heat honey, sugar, and water on low in the microwave until the sugar dissolves. Brush the syrup over the warm cake. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove from the pan and cool completely.

Dust with powdered sugar before slicing. Enjoy!