Apple and Walnut Cake

Apple and Walnut Cake - A Flavorful Delight from the Heart of Cooking

Who doesn’t love a fluffy cake with flavors of apples and walnuts that blend sweetness and crunchiness? This apple and walnut cake recipe is not only simple but also an explosion of tastes, perfect for a sweet snack, a special occasion, or simply to indulge your taste buds. Moreover, it’s a wonderful way to use fresh apples, especially in their season. Let’s embark on this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

- 2 apples (preferably sweet and aromatic)
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 160 g of white flour
- 200 g of walnuts (chopped into large pieces)
- 1 tablespoon of grated orange zest
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon of flour (to coat the apples)
- 100 ml of milk (you can also use plant-based milk for a vegan version)
- Cinnamon (to taste)

A Bit of History

The cake is a dish that has been loved by generations, often associated with family gatherings or celebrations. Its origins are deeply rooted in baking tradition, where each housewife adds her personal touch. In this recipe, we chose apples and walnuts to create a dessert that not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also brings nutritional benefits.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Apples: Start by washing the apples well. Cut them into small cubes and place them in a bowl. Coat them with 1 tablespoon of flour - this trick will help the apples not sink in the batter during baking.

2. Mixing the Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, combine 160 g of flour with the egg, oil, milk, and honey. Mix gently with a whisk or spatula until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

3. Adding the Flavors: At this stage, add the chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and grated orange zest. Mix again to evenly distribute the ingredients.

4. Incorporating the Baking Powder: Add the baking powder to the mixture and mix gently. Make sure not to overmix to keep the cake's airy texture.

5. Adding the Apples: Before the mixture becomes too thick, fold in the flour-coated apple cubes. This way, the apples will be evenly distributed in the batter.

6. Preparing the Baking Pan: Grease a baking tray with oil and dust it with flour to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the mixture into the tray, ensuring it levels evenly.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for about 35 minutes. Check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the middle - it should come out clean.

8. Cooling and Serving: Once the cake is ready, let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Apples: Choose apples based on your preferences. Sweet apples like Gala or Fuji offer a pleasant flavor, while tart apples can add an interesting contrast.
- Nuts: You can use pecans or almonds instead of regular walnuts to add a distinctive note.
- Cinnamon: Adjust the amount of cinnamon according to your taste; add more for a stronger flavor.
- Vegan Version: You can replace the egg with a ripe banana or a mixture of flaxseeds (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds + 2.5 tablespoons of water).

Nutritional Benefits

This apple and walnut cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C, while walnuts provide healthy fatty acids and antioxidants. Honey adds a natural sweetness, being a healthier alternative to processed sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
- Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches for different flavors.

2. What drinks pair well with this cake?
- A cup of herbal tea or a cappuccino are excellent to accompany this dessert. Also, a glass of cold milk can be a classic choice.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
- Yes, the cake can be frozen. You can cut it into slices and wrap it in cling film, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

4. Why should I choose this cake?
- It’s a simple, quick, and versatile recipe, perfect for any occasion. You can customize the ingredients according to your preferences.

Personal Note

Often, when I prepare this apple and walnut cake, I think of the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother. She always told me that the secret to a good dessert is the love you put into it. So, don’t forget to add a little bit of your heart to every recipe you make!

Now that you have all this information, it’s time to get to work and turn this recipe into a true culinary success. Make your apple and walnut cake, enjoy its flavors, and share it with your loved ones! Bon appétit!