Caramelized Apple Cake

To prepare a delicious apple cake, it is essential to follow the steps carefully, ensuring that each ingredient contributes to the final flavor. We start by sifting the flour in a bowl, which will ensure a light and fluffy texture, along with baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the spice mix, which may include cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger, and sugar. These dry ingredients will create the perfect base for our dough.

In another bowl, we will mix the eggs using an electric mixer until they triple in volume, becoming frothy and airy. It is important that this process is done at high speed to incorporate enough air into the mixture. Once the eggs reach the desired consistency, we gradually add the oil while continuing to mix. The oil will add moisture and make the cake softer. Next, we add the yogurt, orange juice, and grated orange peel, which will provide a fresh aroma and a hint of acidity. Finally, we add the vanilla to enhance the flavor.

After obtaining a uniform mixture, we need to start incorporating the dry ingredients. We will gradually add the flour mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon, just enough to obtain a homogeneous dough. Its consistency should be thicker than regular dough, similar to a heavy-flowing cream that forms easily.

Next, we take care of the apples. We peel and core them, cut them into small cubes, and mix them with 1/4 cup of sugar (or 1/2 cup for a sweeter version) and the spice mix. These apples will add a sweet-sour note to our cake. In a baking pan lined with parchment paper, we place a few tablespoons of the apple cubes, then pour in 1/2 of the batter, evenly distributing the remaining apples and covering with the other half of the batter. We gently level the surface to achieve an even cake.

With the oven preheated to a moderate heat, we place the pan inside and let the cake bake for about an hour. It is essential to check the cake with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, then the cake is ready. After baking, we will let the cake cool slightly in the pan, then we will turn it out onto a wire rack. It is recommended to leave the cake upside down so that the top is covered with caramelized apples, which will add an appetizing appearance.

In the end, the cake can be served plain or dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. This recipe not only offers a delicious dessert but also a wonderful way to enjoy apples in a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy your meal!