Apple and Sour Cherry Cake

Apple and Sour Cherry Cake: A Sweet Delight for All Dessert Lovers

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 10

If you're looking for a quick and delicious dessert that will bring joy to your loved ones' faces, the apple and sour cherry cake is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also combines delightful flavors and a soft texture, making it ideal for indulgent moments. Whether you serve it at a gathering with friends or as a dessert after dinner, every slice will be appreciated.

The history of apple and sour cherry cake is rich, often being prepared in traditional households during the autumn fruit season. In various ways, each culture has found ways to combine juicy apples with other fruits, creating recipes that have been passed down through generations. Now, let's venture into the kitchen together and discover how to create this delicacy!

Ingredients:
- 1 kg apples (choose sweet and fragrant apples)
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 5 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 10 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of vanilla pudding
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1-2 tablespoons of cinnamon (to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- Sour cherries from jam (about 200 g)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples. Use a sharp knife or a peeler to get perfect slices. Once peeled, grate the apples. This step will help release the juices from the apples, giving them an intense flavor.

2. Cooking the apples: Place the grated apples in a pot over medium heat. Add the packet of vanilla pudding and cinnamon. Stir constantly to prevent burning. If the apples are too tart, you can add sugar to taste. When the mixture becomes homogeneous and the apples soften, remove it from heat and let it cool.

3. Preparing the batter: In a large bowl, separate the eggs. Beat the yolks with the sugar and oil until you achieve a creamy mixture. Now is the time to add a pinch of salt, which will enhance the cake's flavor. Beat the egg whites separately until they form stiff peaks (you can use an electric mixer to achieve an airy texture).

4. Combining the ingredients: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually add it to the egg mixture, stirring with a spatula.

5. Assembling the cake: Line a baking dish with parchment paper or grease it with butter. Pour half of the batter into the dish, followed by the cooled apples. Add the remaining batter on top of the apples. For an extra burst of flavor, scatter the sour cherries from the jam on top, distributing them evenly.

6. Baking the cake: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake the cake for about 35 minutes, or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done).

7. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the dish for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can dust powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch!

Serving suggestions: This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, creating a wonderful contrast between warm and cold. A cup of tea or coffee also complements this dessert beautifully.

Practical tips:
- Choose apples based on your preferences – for a more intense flavor, opt for red apples.
- You can experiment with different types of jam; sour cherries can be replaced with cherries or raspberries for a different note.
- If you want a healthier version, you can substitute some sugar with honey or maple syrup.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned apples? Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
2. How can I store the cake? The cake keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
3. Is the cake suitable for a vegetarian diet? Yes, the recipe is completely vegetarian.

Nutritional benefits: Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to heart health. Sour cherries are rich in vitamins, minerals, and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get cooking and bring a little magic into your kitchen. Whether it's a special occasion or just a simple weekend evening, the apple and sour cherry cake will surely become a family favorite! Enjoy every moment and every slice!