Easy Spiced Festive Apple Cake

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Beat on low speed until just fluffy and combined; do not over-mix to ensure a tender cake.

Line an 8-inch round cake tin with parchment paper. Pour about 1/3 of the batter into the tin to create a base roughly half an inch thick. Spread half of the chopped apples in an even layer over the batter.

Gently spread another 1/3 of the cake batter over the apples, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Fold the remaining apples into the final 1/3 of the batter. Carefully place this as the top layer and smooth the surface gently.

Bake for approximately 40 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Allow the cake to cool completely, then lightly dust the top with icing sugar for a festive finish.

Slice and serve this delightful, moist cake with your favorite tea or coffee.