Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake

There's something magical about the aroma of a Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake baking in the oven. This beloved recipe combines the comforting flavors of traditional apple pie with the tender crumb of a cake, creating a dessert that feels both familiar and excitingly new. Inspired by Jamie's signature approach to cooking – simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary – this apple pie cake has become a staple in my kitchen for family gatherings and special occasions.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its perfect balance: sweet-tart apples nestled in a cinnamon-spiced batter that rises to embrace them as it bakes. Unlike a traditional apple pie that requires mastering pastry, this cake-based version is remarkably forgiving, making it accessible even to novice bakers. Let me guide you through creating this showstopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Gather Your Ingredients

The foundation of any great recipe starts with quality ingredients. For this Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake, you'll need everyday pantry staples plus fresh apples. I recommend using a mix of apple varieties for the most complex flavor – perhaps Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – provides structure to the cake


• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – for sweetness in the cake batter


• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened – creates richness and tenderness


• 2 large eggs – bind ingredients and add moisture


• 1 teaspoon baking powder – gives the cake its rise


• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – essential warming spice


• 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances all flavors


• 1 cup (240ml) milk – adds moisture to the batter


• 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced – the star of the show


• 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar – for caramel notes in the apple mixture


• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds depth of flavor


• 1 teaspoon lemon juice – brightens the apple flavor


• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – complements the cinnamon beautifully


• Powdered sugar – for dusting the finished cake

How to Make Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake

Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature allows the cake to bake evenly without burning. Thoroughly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. A properly greased pan ensures your cake will release easily when serving.

Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with the brown sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and nutmeg. Toss gently until all apple slices are evenly coated. The lemon juice not only adds brightness but also prevents the apples from browning. Let this mixture sit while you prepare the cake batter, allowing the flavors to meld and the apples to release some of their juices.

Create the Cake Batter Base

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes noticeably lighter in both color and texture. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.

Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. This gradual addition prevents the batter from curdling. Once the eggs are incorporated, pour in the milk and mix until just combined.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, which can develop gluten and lead to a tough cake.

Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange half of the apple mixture over the batter, then top with the remaining batter. Finish by arranging the remaining apples decoratively on top. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. The cake should be golden brown, and the apples should be tender.

Cool and Finish

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before serving. This cooling period allows the cake to set properly. Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch that adds a hint of extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake represents the best of both worlds – the comforting familiarity of apple pie with the ease and satisfaction of a homemade cake. It's the kind of recipe that becomes a treasured part of your baking repertoire, perfect for special occasions or whenever you need a little culinary comfort.

What makes this recipe truly special is its adaptability. You can adjust the sweetness, experiment with different apple varieties, or add your own signature touches. The cake itself is forgiving, making it accessible even if you're new to baking. And there's something undeniably heartwarming about pulling a golden, apple-studded cake from the oven – it's an instant mood lifter.

I hope you'll try this Jamie Oliver-inspired creation in your own kitchen. When you do, take a moment to appreciate the simple joy of transforming basic ingredients into something truly magical. Happy baking!