Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp dark rum
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3 large firm tart apples, peeled and cubed (approx. 1.5 lbs)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp coarse sugar

Instructions:

  1. Peel, core, and cut apples into 1/2-inch (1.2cm) cubes.
  2. In a medium bowl, toss the apple cubes with lemon juice and cinnamon; set aside to prevent oxidation.
  3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  4. Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
  5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and dark rum, mixing until fully emulsified.
  6. Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined.
  7. Gently fold the cinnamon-coated apples into the batter until evenly distributed.
  8. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  9. Sprinkle the coarse sugar evenly over the top.
  10. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.