Baked apple sponge

COOKING TIME 35 MINUTES

SERVES 4–6

200g (7oz) unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing

200g (7oz) demerara sugar

3 eggs, beaten

200g (7oz) self-raising flour, sifted

2 medium cooking apples, peeled, cored and chopped

Custard or cream, to serve

PREHEAT THE OVEN TO 190°C (375°F), Gas Mark 5 and grease a 1.1-litre (2-pint) ovenproof baking dish. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Gradually mix in the beaten eggs, along with a little of the flour, then fold in the remaining flour and the chopped apple.

SPOON INTO THE GREASED DISH and bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 180°C (350°F), Gas Mark 4 and continue to bake for another 20 minutes. Serve hot with custard or cream.