A Cosy Twist on a Classic

Somerset apple cake holds a special place in British baking. This spelt version gives it a light nutty taste, a soft crumb, and a warm flavour that pairs beautifully with fresh apples. The recipe uses simple ingredients, clear steps, and a reliable method that works for beginners. Each slice is moist, gently sweet, and perfect for tea time. It is an easy bake that feels homely, comforting, and satisfying without being heavy.

Why This Cake Works Well

This cake uses spelt flour, which keeps the texture soft and tender. Spelt mixes easily and bakes evenly, so the result stays moist. Apples add natural sweetness, while the spices give a warm flavour. The batter comes together quickly and bakes into a cake that looks rustic and inviting. It is a great option for casual baking, family treats, or simple desserts.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 45 mins

Total Time 1 hr

Cuisine: British

Courses: Dessert

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 8

Calories: 260

Best Season: Winter, Fall

Dietary: Vegetarian

Description

A soft and moist Somerset apple cake made with spelt flour, warm spices, and fresh apples. This easy recipe delivers a rustic British bake with a light nutty taste, gentle sweetness, and a tender crumb. Perfect for tea time or a cosy dessert.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

200 g spelt flour
2 tsp baking powder
100 g brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
pinch salt

Wet Ingredients

2 large eggs
100 g melted butter (or coconut oil)
100 ml milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Fruit

2 medium apples (peeled and diced)
thin apple slices (Optional for topping)
1 tbsp demerara sugar (Optional for crunch)

Instructions

Heat oven.

1
Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 20 cm round cake tin.

Combine dry ingredients.

2
Mix flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in one bowl.

Combine wet ingredients.

3
Whisk eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla in another bowl.

Mix batter.

4
Pour wet mixture into dry mixture and stir until just combined.

Add apples.

5
Fold in diced apples. The batter should be thick.

Fill tin.

6
Spoon batter into the cake tin. Smooth lightly. Add apple slices and sprinkle demerara sugar on top.

Bake.

7
Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and firm on top.

Cool and slice.

8
Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 260kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 11g17%
Saturated Fat 6g30%
Cholesterol 60mg20%
Sodium 140mg6%
Potassium 160mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 18g
Protein 4g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes

Do not overmix the batter; spelt flour can become dense if worked too much.
The cake stays moist for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Optional Substitutions & Variations

Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar.
Add 50 g raisins, 40 g chopped walnuts, or both.
Replace butter with melted coconut oil for a lighter flavour.
Use pear instead of apple for a softer, sweeter version.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store at room temperature for 2–3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze slices for up to 2 months.
Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.

Keywords: spelt, apple cake, Somerset cake, easy baking, British dessert

Tips & Variations

This cake benefits from gentle handling. Mix the batter lightly to keep the crumb soft.

For deeper flavour, use a mix of sweet and tart apples. You can also add a touch of lemon zest to brighten the taste.

Extra Ideas

Add a thin glaze of icing sugar and milk for sweetness.
Serve with clotted cream for a classic British finish.
Bake in a loaf tin instead of a round tin for a sliceable tea loaf.

Conclusion

This Spelt Somerset Apple Cake is an easy bake with warm flavours and a soft texture. It suits beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Give it a try the next time you want a simple, cosy dessert.

Feel free to adjust spices or add nuts to make it your own.

Enjoy every slice with tea, coffee, or warm custard.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-somerset-apple-cake/

Valentina

A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!