Apple cake

Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 180°C (350˚F). Grease your cake pan thoroughly and line it with baking paper to ensure your cake loosens effortlessly once baked. In a large mixing bowl, crack all four eggs and add the sugar. Vigorously beat the mixture until it triples in volume and becomes delightfully fluffy — this will give your cake a wonderfully light texture. Sift the self-raising flour into the egg mixture, then gently fold it in. Take great care to preserve the airiness you've created by using a gentle folding motion. Pour in the melted butter, cooled slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs, and mix just until everything is combined, creating a smooth batter. Spice things up by adding the cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract; these ingredients will infuse your cake with warmth and depth. Dice the apples into bite-sized pieces. For an extra touch of cinnamon goodness, feel free to toss the apple pieces in a little more cinnamon before folding them gently into the batter. This will ensure apple bits are evenly scattered and flavorful. Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface. Arrange thin apple slices artistically on top, pressing them lightly into the batter. For a lovely crunch, sprinkle almond shavings over the surface if you like. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 to 50 minutes. Your apple cake is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. This signals that your cake is perfectly baked — moist inside but set. Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes in the pan, then run a knife around the edge and carefully remove it. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the top with a sprinkling of powdered sugar to finish your charming apple cake with a touch of sweetness and sparkle. Tip: Make sure not to overbeat the flour into the eggs to keep your cake tender. Also, letting your cake cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar helps keep it looking beautiful and prevents melting.