Cobnut & Apple Cake with Caramel Topping

This delightful Cobnut & Apple Cake combines the fresh, fruity flavours of grated apples with the nuttiness of cobnuts, all finished with a luscious caramel topping. It’s the perfect treat to serve with a pot of tea and is sure to become a family favourite.

Ingredients

• 100g chopped Cobnuts
• 2 grated Apples (leave the skin on for extra fibre or peel if preferred)
• 180g Butter
• 180g Caster Sugar
• 2 Eggs
• 225g Self-Raising Flour
• ½ tsp Baking Powder
• 2 tbsp Yoghurt
• 3 tbsp Dulce de Leche or Homemade Caramel
• 25g finely chopped Cobnuts

Method

1. Prepare the Batter:

   • Beat the butter and sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

2. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:

   • Gently fold in the flour and baking powder, ensuring no lumps.
   • Add the yoghurt, grated apples, and chopped cobnuts. Mix until evenly combined.

3. Prepare the Tin and Bake:

   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan)/Gas Mark 4.
   • Line a loaf tin with baking parchment and preheat it in the oven for a few minutes.
   • Pour the cake batter into the prepared tin. Bake for 1 hour or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. (Note: The apple pieces may appear moist but aren’t uncooked.)

4. Make the Caramel Topping:

   • In a small saucepan, heat the dulce de leche or caramel until it bubbles.
   • Stir in the finely chopped cobnuts and let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes.

5. Finish the Cake:

   • Pour the warm caramel mixture over the cake while it’s still warm. Allow it to cool in the tin for 5 minutes.
   • Carefully lift the cake from the tin and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Slice the cake and serve with a hot cup of tea for the ultimate indulgence.

Tips for Success

• For extra nutty flavour, toast the cobnuts before adding them to the batter or caramel topping.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it moist and delicious.

Enjoy this seasonal Cobnut & Apple Cake as a cosy treat or as a centrepiece for autumn gatherings!