Crocodile Pie (with apples)

Crocodile cake with apples - a creative and fun delicacy

Who can resist a crocodile-shaped cake? This recipe will not only bring a smile to the little ones' faces but will also transform a simple meal into a memorable culinary experience. Moreover, it is a wonderful way to introduce children to the secrets of cooking. Let's begin our culinary adventure!

Total preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 8

The history of animal-shaped cakes dates back to ancient times. They have often been made to bring joy to children, as well as to encourage creativity in the kitchen. Additionally, apple cakes are a classic, combining the sweet flavor of fruits with the crunchy texture of a perfect crust.

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 200 g flour
- 100 g butter (cold and diced)
- 4 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 6 tablespoons cold water
- 1 pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 7 apples (preferably sweet and aromatic)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (adjustable according to the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for an extra flavor)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Start by preparing the dough. Cut the cold butter into cubes and place it in a large bowl. Add the flour and salt, then mix everything with your fingers until you achieve a sandy texture, similar to breadcrumbs. This is the stage where you need to ensure that no large pieces of butter remain.

2. Add the powdered sugar and the beaten egg. Mix well, gradually adding the cold water until the mixture becomes homogeneous. Once the dough is formed, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. This step is essential for achieving a crunchy crust.

3. Meanwhile, prepare the apple filling. Peel the apples and grate them. Squeeze them to remove excess juice, then place them in a pot over heat. Add the sugar and cinnamon, stirring constantly. Let them sauté for about 5-10 minutes until they become soft. Once the filling is ready, let it cool.

4. After the dough has been in the fridge, sprinkle the work surface with flour and roll out the dough with a rolling pin, forming a rectangle about 25 x 35 cm. Cut off the excess dough to keep it even.

5. Divide the dough into 3 equal parts lengthwise. In the middle of the dough, place the apple filling, leaving a margin of about 2 fingers for the head and tail. Now comes the fun part! Cut strips of dough about 2 cm wide on both edges and braid them over the filling, as if making a crown.

6. Take the corners from the right side and overlap them to form the crocodile's head. Gently flatten the area to shape the snout. Using your fingers, create two holes for nostrils, and from the remaining dough, take a small piece to roll and use for the crocodile's eyebrows and eyes.

7. From the dough, also form four small pieces for the paws, which you place next to the crocodile's body. Use scissors to cut the side edges of the snout and create the teeth. Pinch the crocodile's body with scissors to make scales, giving it an authentic look.

8. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C. Place the crocodile cake in the tray and bake for 30-35 minutes until it becomes golden and crispy. Once baked, let it cool slightly, then you can serve it.

Serving suggestions:
The crocodile cake can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. If you want to add a touch of freshness, a berry compote would be perfect!

Possible variations:
If you want to be creative, you can experiment with different fillings. For example, peach or apricot filling brings a tropical flavor, while a nut and raisin filling offers a crunchy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, and using natural ingredients such as sugar and cinnamon can add flavor without compromising health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries.

2. What can I use instead of butter?
You can use margarine or a coconut oil-based substitute for a vegan option.

3. How can I store the cake?
It keeps well in the fridge, covered, for 2-3 days.

4. Can it be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

This crocodile cake is not just a dessert but also a way to create beautiful memories in the kitchen with loved ones. So, dress up for adventure, take your kids along, and prepare this creative cake! It will surely become a family recipe, passed down from generation to generation.