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Jamie Oliver Apple Sponge

jamie oliver apple sponge

Jamie Oliver’s apple sponge is a dessert made by layering cooked apples at the base and topping them with a sponge batter, then baking until golden and fluffy.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Apple Base

  • 45 apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
  • 23 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons water

For the Sponge Topping

  • 150g butter (softened)
  • 150g sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 150g self-raising flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional additions:

  • Lemon zest
  • Nutmeg
  • Chopped nuts

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures even cooking for both the apple base and sponge topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Base

Place the sliced apples in a pan with sugar, cinnamon, and water. Cook gently for 5–8 minutes until slightly softened but not mushy. This step ensures the apples are tender after baking.

Step 3: Transfer Apples to Baking Dish

Spread the cooked apples evenly in a baking dish, creating a uniform base for the sponge.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving a soft sponge texture.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance flavor.

Step 6: Add Flour

Fold in the self-raising flour gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the sponge light and airy.

Step 7: Spread Sponge Over Apples

Carefully spread the sponge mixture over the apple layer. Try to cover it evenly without pressing too hard.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 30–35 minutes until the sponge is golden and a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Let the dessert cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle.