ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Pan:
- Begin by greasing a small non-stick frying pan (about 8-10 inches in diameter) with butter or oil. This will ensure the cake doesn’t stick and makes for easy removal once it’s baked. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper if you prefer.
- Grate the Apple:
- Peel the apple, then grate it using a coarse grater. This will allow the apple to cook down quickly in the pan, releasing its natural sweetness and moisture, which adds to the cake’s tenderness.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a bowl, whisk the egg and sugar together until combined. Add the milk and vanilla extract (if using), and mix until smooth. The liquid ingredients will form the base of your cake batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps ensure the cake is light and airy.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter—just enough to incorporate everything.
- Add the Grated Apple:
- Gently fold the grated apple into the batter. The apple will add moisture and flavor to the cake, so don’t worry if it seems a little liquid at first—this is totally normal.
- Cook the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan over medium heat on the stove and cover with a lid. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, checking occasionally. The cake will begin to puff up, and the top will firm up slightly as it cooks.
- Check for Doneness:
- After about 10-12 minutes, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready. If not, cover the pan again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once the cake is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it up and serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey for extra sweetness.
Why This Cake Is So Popular:
- Quick and Easy: This cake is perfect for anyone who wants a homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen. With only 15 minutes of cooking time, it’s a fantastic option for those spontaneous cravings or when guests show up unexpectedly.
- Minimal Ingredients: The recipe requires just a few basic ingredients—egg, apple, milk, flour—plus a bit of sugar and baking powder. No need for fancy equipment or long ingredient lists!
- One-Pan Wonder: All you need is one pan, making this cake a low-maintenance dessert. You don’t even need to turn on your oven. The stovetop method is both efficient and effective, especially when you’re short on time.
- Natural Sweetness from the Apple: The grated apple adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake. As it cooks, it creates pockets of apple flavor that complement the soft, fluffy texture. You don’t even need much sugar, making this a lighter dessert.
- Customizable: Want to mix things up? Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version, or toss in a handful of raisins or chopped nuts for extra texture. You could even swap the apple for a pear or a ripe banana, depending on what you have on hand.
Tips for the Perfect 15-Minute Cake:
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: A non-stick frying pan is key to ensuring the cake cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom. If you don’t have a non-stick pan, just be sure to grease it generously.
- Grate the Apple Well: Grating the apple finely helps it blend seamlessly into the batter. You want the apple to cook down quickly and evenly without leaving large chunks that might not cook through in such a short time.
- Watch the Heat: Cooking the cake over medium heat is important. Too high a heat might burn the bottom while leaving the top raw, while too low a heat will make the cake take longer to cook. Adjust the heat as needed and check for doneness frequently.
- Serving Suggestions: This cake is great on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re having a quiet evening at home or hosting a last-minute get-together.
Conclusion:
This 15-minute cake with just 1 egg, an apple, milk, and flour is proof that simple ingredients can yield delicious results. It’s the perfect recipe to have in your back pocket for busy days when you want to bake something from scratch but don’t have a lot of time or energy. The apple brings natural sweetness, the milk keeps it moist, and the result is a light, fluffy cake with just the right amount of flavor.
Give it a try next time you’re craving something homemade, or impress your friends with this quick dessert they’ll love. It’s an internet favorite for a reason—and once you taste it, you’ll see why! Happy baking!
ADVERTISEMENT
