Jamie Oliver–Inspired Apple Pie Cake (Easy & Cozy Dessert)

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of apples and warm spices baking in the oven. This Jamie Oliver–inspired apple pie cake captures everything we love about classic apple pie — tender fruit, cinnamon warmth, and buttery richness — but transforms it into a simple, sliceable cake that’s far easier to make.

This dessert is rustic, unfussy, and full of heart. It doesn’t rely on perfect layers or decorative finishes. Instead, it celebrates home baking at its best: simple ingredients, honest flavors, and a cozy result that feels right for any time of year.

Whether you’re serving it as an afternoon treat, an easy dessert after dinner, or a sweet addition to a weekend gathering, this apple pie inspired cake delivers comfort in every bite.

What Is an Apple Pie Cake?

An apple pie cake blends the soul of apple pie with the structure of a cake. Instead of a pastry crust, apples are folded directly into a soft batter, often spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. As the cake bakes, the apples soften and release their juices, creating pockets of moisture and flavor throughout the crumb.

The result is lighter than pie, sturdier than apple crumble, and perfect for slicing and sharing. This easy apple dessert feels familiar yet refreshingly simple.

Why This Apple Cake Works So Well

This cake focuses on balance. The apples provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the batter stays tender but sturdy. Butter adds richness without heaviness, and warm spices bring everything together.

Unlike overly sweet apple cakes, this one lets the fruit shine. The flavor is cozy, not cloying — exactly what you want when you’re craving something comforting but not overly indulgent.

It’s also incredibly forgiving, making it ideal for beginner bakers or relaxed weekend baking.

Ingredients for Jamie Oliver–Inspired Apple Pie Cake

• Apples
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Milk or yogurt
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Salt

Choose apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. A mix of sweet and tart apples adds depth and complexity.

Instructions: How to Make Apple Pie Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a round cake pan.
2. Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss lightly with cinnamon and set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and lemon zest.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk or yogurt, just until combined.
7. Gently fold most of the apples into the batter, reserving a few slices for the top.
8. Pour batter into the prepared pan and arrange remaining apple slices on top.
9. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Jamie Oliver–Inspired Apple Pie Cake (Easy & Cozy Dessert)

A cozy apple pie–inspired cake with tender apples, warm spices, and a soft buttery crumb.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: British-Inspired, European

Calories: 310

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Apple Cake Batter

• 3 apples peeled and sliced
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
• 0.75 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs large
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 0.25 tsp nutmeg
• 0.5 cup milk or yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon zest

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Cake pan

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pan.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs, vanilla, and lemon zest, mixing well.
4. Whisk dry ingredients and fold into wet mixture alternately with milk.
5. Fold in apples, pour into pan, and top with reserved slices.
6. Bake 40–45 minutes until golden and set.

Notes

Best served slightly warm with cream or custard.

Tips for the Best Apple Pie Cake

Don’t overmix:
Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.

Slice apples evenly:
Uniform slices ensure even baking and better texture.

Let it rest:
Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes so the crumb sets properly.

Cozy Variations to Try

Apple Cinnamon Streusel Cake:
Add a crumb topping made from butter, flour, and brown sugar.

Apple Almond Cake:
Replace a small portion of flour with ground almonds for extra richness.

Apple Raisin Cake:
Fold in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for added texture.

Apple Pie Cake with Custard:
Serve warm slices with vanilla custard for a classic British-inspired finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish
• Serve warm with whipped cream or custard
• Pair with coffee or tea for afternoon snacking
• Add vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style presentation

This cozy apple cake works just as well dressed up as it does served simply.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Apple pie cake keeps beautifully. Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to restore warmth and softness.

It can also be baked a day ahead, making it ideal for entertaining or relaxed hosting.

A Nod to Rustic European Baking

This style of apple cake reflects the rustic baking traditions found across Europe — especially in Italy and the UK — where cakes are simple, fruit-forward, and meant to be enjoyed without fuss. The inspiration is about approachability rather than perfection.

That’s what makes this dessert feel timeless.

Why This Cake Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Box

This apple cake recipe is cozy, reliable, and endlessly adaptable. It captures the comfort of apple pie without the effort, making it perfect for busy days or spontaneous baking.

Once you try it, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to every apple season.