This Apricot Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet-tart flavor of fresh apricots with a moist, tender crumb. By incorporating apricot puree into the batter and topping the cake with halved apricots and sliced almonds, each bite offers a burst of fruity goodness. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year, this cake is sure to impress.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Cake:

4–5 fresh apricots (approximately 240 grams), halved and pitted
2 cups (250 grams) unbleached all-purpose flour, sifted
3 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
8 tablespoons (113 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
¾ teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
2 large eggs (100 grams), at room temperature
¾ cup (180 grams) full-fat sour cream

For the Topping:

4–5 fresh apricots, halved and pitted
1 teaspoon lemon juice
¼ cup sliced almonds

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Prepare the apricot puree: Cut 4–5 apricots into quarters and puree them in a mini food processor until smooth. You should have about 212 grams of puree. Set aside.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt.
Cream butter and sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, almond extract, vanilla extract, and ground cardamom on medium speed until creamy and lighter in color, about 2½ minutes.
Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
Combine with dry ingredients and sour cream: Add half of the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just incorporated. Add the sour cream and mix until combined. Add the remaining flour mixture and mix until just incorporated.
Add apricot puree: Add the apricot puree to the batter and mix on medium speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure the batter is well mixed.
Assemble the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top with an offset spatula. Arrange the halved apricots, cut side up, around the edge of the pan and place one half in the center. Brush the apricots with lemon juice to prevent browning. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top, avoiding the apricots.
Bake: Bake the cake for 55–65 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. The internal temperature should be about 205°F (96°C).
Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Run an offset spatula around the edge to loosen the cake from the pan. Let it cool for 15 minutes, then remove the sides of the springform pan. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.

Nutrients

Per serving (based on 16 servings):

Calories: 183 kcal
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0.2g
Cholesterol: 38mg
Sodium: 119mg
Potassium: 86mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 14g
Vitamin A: 546 IU
Vitamin C: 2mg
Calcium: 14mg
Iron: 1mg

The Beauty of Apricots in Baking

Apricots, with their vibrant orange color and delicate sweetness, are often overshadowed by other more popular fruits like apples and berries. However, when it comes to baking, apricots provide a unique flavor profile that blends well with a variety of other ingredients. Their natural tartness balances the sweetness of cake batter, and their delicate texture softens as they bake, adding a juicy and flavorful component to the dessert.

Not only do apricots add taste, but they also bring several health benefits. Apricots are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, promoting a strong immune system, and fighting off free radicals. The fruit is also a good source of dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, which are important for digestive health, maintaining healthy blood pressure, and supporting overall well-being.

Why Apricot Cake Is a Perfect Choice for Any Occasion

Apricot cake is versatile, making it an excellent choice for various occasions. Its delicate flavor and soft texture lend themselves well to both casual and formal events. It can be served as a comforting dessert for family dinners or an elegant treat for gatherings like bridal showers, birthday parties, or even festive occasions like Easter and Christmas.

The Art of Baking with Fresh Fruit

Baking with fresh fruit, like apricots, adds complexity to the flavor profile of a cake. However, it can also present challenges. Fruit can increase the moisture content of the batter, which may affect the texture and baking time. The key to achieving the perfect apricot cake lies in balancing the fruit’s moisture with the other ingredients. For this reason, using apricot puree is a clever way to incorporate the fruit without overwhelming the batter.

Flavor Pairings for Apricot Cake

The flavor profile of apricot cake works well with various complementary flavors. Almond extract is commonly used in apricot cake recipes because the nuttiness of almonds pairs wonderfully with the slightly sweet and tangy taste of apricots. The use of ground cardamom adds another layer of complexity with its warm, aromatic essence, which enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

Apricot cake can also be paired with a variety of frostings and toppings. A light dusting of powdered sugar, a simple glaze made from apricot preserves, or even a dollop of whipped cream can take the dessert to the next level. For those who enjoy a rich finish, a cream cheese frosting or a mascarpone-based topping could complement the fruit’s tartness beautifully.

Health Benefits of Apricots

Apricots are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. A medium-sized apricot contains about 17 calories, making it a low-calorie fruit option that’s perfect for those looking to indulge without overindulging. Apricots are rich in vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and skin. The high levels of beta-carotene in apricots can also act as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage and support the body’s immune system.

How to Choose the Best Apricots for Baking

When selecting apricots for your cake, it’s important to choose fresh, ripe fruit. Apricots should feel slightly soft but not mushy, with a vibrant, golden-orange color. They should also have a pleasant, fruity aroma, indicating that they are ripe and ready to eat. If you can’t find fresh apricots, you can substitute them with dried apricots, though they will need to be rehydrated before use.

Tips for Perfecting Apricot Cake

Baking a perfect apricot cake is all about balance and technique. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before starting. This ensures they incorporate smoothly into the batter, preventing a dense texture.
Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so it’s important to measure your ingredients carefully. Too much flour or sugar can change the texture of your cake, while too little may result in a cake that’s too moist or too dry.
Monitor the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Cool the Cake Properly: Let the cake cool completely before slicing. This helps the cake set properly and makes it easier to cut into neat pieces. If you need to store the cake, make sure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
Decorate with Seasonal Fruit: While apricots are the star of this cake, feel free to experiment with other fruits like berries or stone fruits. This adds variety and can make your cake even more visually appealing.

Conclusion

Apricot cake is a versatile and delicious dessert that beautifully showcases the flavors of apricots. Its moist texture, complemented by the sweet-tart flavor of the fruit, makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced pastry chef, this cake offers a simple yet impressive way to bring the beauty of fresh fruit into your baking.

0 Shares