Greek Apple Cake: A Cozy, Cinnamon-Scented Dessert with a Greek Twist
Apple cake is a classic dessert in many cultures, but today I'm bringing you a delightful Greek-inspired version that combines the comforting warmth of cinnamon, brown sugar, cognac, and butter with the tartness of Granny Smith apples and the sweetness of Pink Lady apples. This Greek Apple Cake is more than just a treat; it’s a celebration of autumn flavours, Mediterranean ingredients, and a timeless baking tradition. Thanks to the Milopita I enjoyed in Chania, Crete, the day of my birthday, inspired me to create this delicious recipe.
What makes this cake truly special, however, is its layer of sliced apples baked on top, creating a beautifully caramelized topping that makes each bite irresistible. With a touch of allspice, and the richness of brown sugar, this cake offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it the ideal dessert for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a dinner party with friends.

Tips for Perfect Greek Apple Cake
Apple Variety Matters: Using a combination of tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Pink Lady) apples gives the cake the perfect balance. If you don’t have these varieties, try using any apples that hold their shape well when baking.
Add Nuts: For an added crunch, consider folding in walnuts along with the apples. This adds a beautiful texture and richness to the cake, making it even more satisfying.
Storage: This cake stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored at room temperature. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week, and it tastes even better the next day as the flavours develop.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Apple Cake
A Beautifully Spiced Flavour: The combination of cinnamon, allspice, and brown sugar creates a wonderfully aromatic, spiced cake that smells just as delicious as it tastes.
A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart: The use of Granny Smith apples for tartness and Pink Lady apples for sweetness results in a flavour profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying without being overly sweet.
Rustic, Yet Elegant: The sliced apples on top give the cake a rustic charm, but they also make it feel elegant and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual afternoon coffee or a dinner party dessert.

MILOPITA | Greek Apple Cake
Mary PolitisIngredients
For the cake batter:
- 1 green apple - chopped
- 120 g unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 shot cognac optional
- 1 1/2 cups self-raising flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/3 cup milk
For the apple layer:
- 3-4 apples red and green
- Lemon juice
- 50 g unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Icing sugar
- Extra cinnamon to dust
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 170°C. For the top layer. Slice the apples and add a squeeze of lemon juice. Melt butter, sugar, and cinnamon then pour over the apples. Set aside.
- Using an electric beater or stand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light in colour. Add an egg and continue beating after both additions.
- Fold through the flour, baking powder and cinnamon slightly then pour in the milk and congac continuing to fold until you have a thick cake batter. Fold through the pieces of apple and transfer to a lined 9 or 10 inch round spring form tray.
- Arrange all apple slices on top and pour the leftover butter and sugar mixture all over the apples. Bake (with the cake tin sitting by within a larger tray in case of any lek) for approximately one hour dust with icing sugar and enjoy.