Soft Apple Cake

• 1 apple, for the topping
• 4 1/4 oz apple purée or unsweetened applesauce
• 3 eggs
• 5 1/3 oz sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp vegetable oil
• 5 1/3 oz plain (all-purpose) flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder
• powdered sugar, for dusting, optional (optional)

Steps

1. 1.In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract for 4-5 minutes until pale and fluffy.▶0:28
2. 2.Add the vegetable oil and whisk for another minute until combined.▶0:49
3. 3.Sift in the flour and baking powder, then gently fold together — try not to overmix.▶1:21
4. 4.Fold in the apple purée until the batter is smooth and evenly combined.▶1:55
5. 5.Pour the batter into a lined 20x20cm (8x8in) pan and smooth the top.▶2:27
6. 6.Thinly slice the apple and toss the slices with the cinnamon powder.▶2:16
7. 7.Arrange the cinnamon apple slices over the top of the batter.▶2:40
8. 8.Bake at 170°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes, until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.▶2:54
9. 9.Let the cake cool slightly, then finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.▶3:12