Apple Cake with Maple Syrup and Mascarpone Whipped Cream

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 medium apples, peeled and grated (about 2 cups)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating each one until fully incorporated.
5. Stir in grated apples and maple syrup.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the apple mixture, alternating with the apple cider, until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. While the cake is baking, make the mascarpone whipped cream. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
9. Once the cake is cool, spread the mascarpone whipped cream on top and drizzle with additional maple syrup, if desired.

Verdict:

This apple cake is moist and flavorful with just the right amount of sweetness from the maple syrup. The mascarpone whipped cream is the perfect complement to the cake, providing a rich and creamy topping that balances out the tanginess of the apples.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this cake as a dessert after dinner or as a treat for afternoon tea. Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat.