Sponge cakes are a classic, but this combination of apple and lemon is something unbeatable

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 3 medium-sized apples (any variety), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Apples:
   • In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with lemon juice and lemon zest to prevent browning. Set aside.
3. Make the Cake Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternate Adding Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Assemble the Cake:
   • Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan. Arrange half of the sliced apples evenly over the batter.
   • Repeat with the remaining batter and sliced apples, creating layers.
7. Bake the Cake:
   • Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
   • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or lemon juice as needed.
9. Glaze the Cake:
   • Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of the cake.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Slice the cake and serve it as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.

This Apple and Lemon Sponge Cake is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to dessert after dinner. The combination of sweet apples and tangy lemon creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will love!