Apple and cinnamon cake

Apple Cinnamon Cake

Do you dream of a dessert that brings back memories of warm autumn days, when apples are fresh and the aromas of cinnamon delight your senses? Apple Cinnamon Cake is the perfect choice! With a simple yet characterful recipe, this cake combines the sweetness with the tartness of apples, offering you not just a dessert, but also a delightful culinary experience.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:
- 2 cups of flour
- 1/4 cup of sugar (you can adjust to taste, adding more if you prefer a sweeter dessert)
- 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- A pinch of ground cloves
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of oil (sunflower or olive, depending on your preference)
- 1 egg
- 3 large apples (preferably tart, such as Granny Smith)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure the apples are fresh, as they will add moisture and flavor to your cake. Peel the apples, slice them thinly, and set them aside, reserving a few for decoration.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, vanilla sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients well to ensure they are perfectly blended. The cinnamon and cloves will give a special flavor to the cake.

3. Mixing the wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the egg and add the milk and oil. Mix well until you have a smooth mixture. It is important not to use cold ingredients, so let them sit at room temperature for a while before you start cooking.

4. Combining the ingredients: Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to combine the two mixtures, being careful not to overmix, as the cake may become dense. Then add the apple slices, reserving a few to place on top.

5. Preparing the baking pan: Grease a baking pan with oil and sprinkle a little flour to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the mixture into the pan, leveling it evenly.

6. Decorating with apples: Arrange the reserved apple slices on the surface of the batter so that it looks appetizing. This step is not only aesthetic but also practical, as the apples will caramelize slightly during baking, adding extra flavor.

7. Baking the cake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the cake in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma that will fill your kitchen while baking will be simply irresistible!

8. Serving: Once the cake has cooled, you can cut it into squares and serve it either warm or cold. It is delicious on its own, but for an extra touch of flavor, try serving it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. You can even add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for an additional note of sweetness.

Helpful tips:
- Choosing apples: Tart apples are the best for this recipe, as they balance the sweetness of the cake. Granny Smith or Fuji apples are excellent options.
- Variations: You can add nuts, almonds, or raisins to the batter for a crunchy texture and additional flavor. You can also experiment with spices, adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a more complex taste.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of cake contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned apples?: It is recommended to use fresh apples for a better texture and to avoid excess moisture.
- How can I store the cake?: The cake stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or can be frozen for a longer period.
- Can I make the cake without eggs?: You can replace the egg with a mixture of 1/4 cup of banana puree or 1/4 cup of applesauce for a vegan option.

The joy of baking the apple cinnamon cake is not just about savoring it, but also about the cooking process itself. It is a recipe that can be easily adapted and personalized, making it perfect for any occasion. So, don’t hesitate! Embark on the culinary adventure and enjoy every delicious bite of this aromatic cake!