Apple Cake with Lemon

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or line with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1.5 cups flour and 1.5 tsp baking powder. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large bowl, cream the 0.5 cup butter and 0.75 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the 2 eggs one at a time.

Step 4

Zest the lemon and squeeze 2 tbsp juice. Stir the zest and juice into the butter mixture.

Step 5

Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 6

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Arrange the 2 sliced apples on top in a single layer, pressing lightly.

Step 7

Bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 35–40 minutes. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then serve warm or at room temperature.