Apple and Almond Cake on the BBQ

This apple and almond cake, baked on the barbecue, is an irresistible dessert that combines fruity sweetness with subtle grilled aromas. Perfect for surprising your guests during an outdoor meal, this fluffy cake proves that BBQ isn't just for meat. Thanks to controlled indirect heat, the texture remains light while the apples gently caramelize. It’s an original, easy-to-make dessert that showcases Gala apples in a recipe inspired by both American and European traditions. A great way to bring classic family baking to your charcoal or gas grill.

Recipe Origins

Apple cake is a timeless classic for cozy family snacks. This BBQ version is inspired by Southern US traditions where desserts are often baked in cast iron skillets directly over the fire. The addition of almonds and almond extract brings elegance and depth, blending rustic charm with refined flavors. This version was tested on a Napoleon Pro22 — a symbol of well-executed outdoor cooking.

Prep & Cooking Time:

  • Prep: 15 minutes
  • Cook: 45 minutes
  • Total: 60 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups flour
1 ½ cups sugar
1 cup butter (softened, 230 g)
3 eggs
½ tsp salt
½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp almond extract
3 small red Gala apples
⅓ cup buttermilk
For garnish: powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat your BBQ to 200°C (392°F), arranging the coals all around the grill but leaving the center free (for indirect heat).
In a stand mixer bowl, beat the butter and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
Add the remaining ingredients except the apples, and mix for 5 minutes.
Pour the batter into a 25 cm (10-inch) cast iron skillet.
Cut the apples into half-moon slices, about 3 mm thick.
Arrange the slices in groups of 3 or 4 on top of the batter.
Bake for about 45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a wooden toothpick into the center — it should come out clean.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar and let cool before serving.

Spiced black tea or moka coffee. For a festive twist, try a sweet cider or a dessert wine like Jurançon.

Serving Tips

Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar. For a rustic effect, bring the cake to the table directly in its cast iron skillet.

Dietary Variations

  • Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pastry flour blend
  • Less sugar: Reduce to 1 cup sugar, replacing ½ cup with applesauce
  • Dairy-free: Use almond or oat milk instead of buttermilk

🧾 Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1/8 of the recipe (Apple & Almond Cake)

Calories: 435 kcal 🟧

Total Fat 21 g 🟧 30% DV
Carbohydrates 56 g 🟧 21% DV
Protein 5 g 🟩 10% DV
Sodium 0.35 g 🟥 6% DV

*DV: Daily Values based on a 2,000 kcal adult diet

🧬 Health Profile – Cancer + Diabetes

💡
🥗 Is this recipe healthy?

While indulgent, this cake can occasionally fit into a balanced diet. It contains apples, which provide fiber and antioxidant polyphenols. However, its high sugar and fat content means it should be enjoyed in moderation—especially by people with diabetes or those following a low-sugar diet. For a healthier version, consider reducing the portion size or replacing part of the sugar with unsweetened applesauce.

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🧬 Cancer Prevention Analysis
This recipe contains no red meat or processed deli meats, both of which are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer according to the IARC. In addition, the absence of direct flame cooking reduces the risk of forming harmful compounds such as PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) and heterocyclic amines. Apples are rich in polyphenols—particularly quercetin—which may offer protective effects at the cellular level.
However, the high content of refined sugar (over 35 g per serving) is not favorable for cancer prevention, especially in individuals who are overweight or insulin resistant. A reduced-sugar version would be more appropriate in this context.

🩺 Analysis for People with Diabetes
With approximately 56 g of carbohydrates per serving—much of it from fast-absorbing sugars—this dessert can cause a significant spike in blood glucose levels. It should therefore be consumed cautiously by individuals with diabetes.
Using apples with a moderate glycemic index (such as Gala) slightly lowers the impact, but not enough to offset the overall glycemic load. It is recommended to:

  • Reduce the portion size (e.g., 1/12th instead of 1/8th)
  • Replace part of the sugar with unsweetened applesauce
  • Add nuts or extra fiber to lower the glycemic index