Carmen's Apple Cake

Carmen's Apple Cake - Simple and Delicious Recipe

If you're looking for a quick dessert that perfectly combines the flavor of caramelized apples with a fluffy texture, Carmen's apple cake is the ideal choice. This simple, easy-to-make recipe promises to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Moreover, it's perfect for any occasion, from a Sunday meal to a party. Let's start the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 7 tablespoons of sugar (preferably brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 7 tablespoons of oil (you can use peanut oil for a richer flavor or sunflower oil for a more neutral aroma)
- 7 tablespoons of milk (whole milk will provide a creamier texture)
- 4 eggs (at room temperature for better incorporation)
- 1 packet of baking powder (about 10g)
- 200g of flour (you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 4-5 apples (preferably tart apples, like Granny Smith or Ionatan)
- Cinnamon (optional, for an extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling the apples, then slice them thinly. They will add not only flavor but also moisture to your cake. Preheat the oven to 180°C and prepare a baking tray by greasing it with a little oil or lining it with parchment paper.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, add the 7 tablespoons of sugar, followed by the chosen oil and milk. Mix well with a whisk or a mixer on low speed until the mixture is smooth. Using peanut oil will give a more intense flavor, while sunflower oil will allow other flavors to shine.

3. Incorporating the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, continuing to mix well after each addition. Eggs at room temperature will integrate more easily, providing a lighter batter.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Sifting the flour is an important technique to avoid lumps. Start incorporating the flour mixture into the wet mixture, mixing gently to avoid developing the gluten in the flour, which could make the cake dense.

5. Adding the apples: Once the mixture is smooth, add the apple slices and, if desired, a teaspoon of cinnamon to enhance the flavor. Gently mix with a spatula so that the apples are well distributed in the batter.

6. Baking: Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and level the surface with a spatula. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cooling and serving: After the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious warm-cold contrast.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of apples or add nuts or raisins to the mixture for extra texture.
- If you want a more flavorful cake, add a tablespoon of vanilla extract to the wet mixture.
- This cake stores well at room temperature in an airtight container, making it suitable for enjoying the next day.

Enjoy every bite of Carmen's apple cake, a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also brings nostalgia in every slice!