Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- 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 for easy removal.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apple pieces, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The top should be golden and the cake should spring back when lightly touched.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Apricot Glaze
- Heat the Preserves: In a small saucepan, combine the apricot preserves and water or lemon juice over low heat. Stir until the preserves melt and become a smooth, pourable glaze. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Glaze and Serve
- Apply the Glaze: Once the cake has cooled, brush or pour the apricot glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to flow down the sides for a shiny, delicious finish.
- Optional Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with sliced almonds for added texture and presentation.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into wedges and serve on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Lemon Cake with Apricot Glaze
- Choose the Right Apple: Use a crisp apple like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for a bit of sweetness.
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: These keep the cake moist and tender without making it too heavy.
- Glaze Variation: For a bit more tang, mix lemon juice with the apricot preserves. If you prefer more sweetness, a bit of honey added to the glaze will enhance the apricot flavor.
This Apple Lemon Cake with Apricot Glaze has a beautiful balance of flavors and textures: the tartness of lemon, the natural sweetness of apples, and the smooth apricot glaze make it a perfect dessert to enjoy all year round!