Apple and Walnut Cake

Apple and Walnut Cake - Delicious and Easy Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 70 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Welcome to our warm and inviting kitchen! Today, I will present you with a special recipe for an apple and walnut cake, a dessert that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia to your days. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family celebration or simply a quiet evening at home.

The history of this cake is fascinating, dating back to times when apples were considered symbols of abundance and prosperity. With a simple combination of ingredients, this cake brings together the sweet taste of baked apples and the crunchy texture of walnuts, transforming into a delight that will be loved by the whole family.

Necessary ingredients:

- 8 large apples (ideally, use Golden Delicious or Granny Smith for a pleasant contrast between sweet and tart)
- 8 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 4 eggs (at room temperature for better mixing)
- 4 tablespoons of water
- 8 tablespoons of flour (type 000 flour is ideal for a finer batter)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 1/2 packet of baking powder (for a fluffy batter)
- a few walnuts (about 8, roughly chopped)
- butter for greasing the pan
- sugar for dusting the pan (or you can use breadcrumbs for a crunchier look)
- optional: a vanilla or chocolate pudding for decoration

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling and coring the apples. Slice them thinly or cube them, depending on your preference. Then, toss them in sugar (about 2-3 tablespoons) to sweeten and give them a caramelized note during baking.

2. Preparing the pan: Generously grease a 30x20 cm pan with butter. Sprinkle sugar on the bottom of the pan, ensuring it is evenly covered. This step will create a sweet and crunchy crust that will add extra flavor to the cake.

3. Arranging the apples: Place the sugar-coated apple slices in the prepared pan, distributing them evenly. If desired, you can add the chopped walnuts among the apples for extra texture.

4. Preparing the batter: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with the remaining sugar (about 5 tablespoons) and the 4 tablespoons of water until frothy and a deep yellow color. Add the vanilla sugar and mix well.

5. Incorporating the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Carefully fold them into the yolk mixture using a spatula, mixing from top to bottom to avoid losing air.

6. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder over the egg mixture. Gently mix until everything is well incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter fluffy.

7. Assembling the cake: Pour the batter over the apples in the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Place the pan in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius and bake the cake for about 50 minutes, or until it has risen well and passes the toothpick test.

8. Inverting the cake: Once the cake is ready, let it cool for a few minutes, then invert it onto a large plate. If the appearance is not perfect, don't worry! A poured vanilla or chocolate pudding on top will hide any imperfections and add a delicious taste.

Serving suggestions: The apple and walnut cake is delicious both warm and cold. I recommend serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweet cream to enhance the flavors. You can also drizzle some caramel on top for an extra touch of refinement.

Nutritional benefits: Apples are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, while walnuts provide omega-3 fatty acids and protein. This cake is not only a treat but also a healthier choice for your desserts.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Absolutely! Pears or peaches are excellent alternatives. Just make sure the fruits are well ripe.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and the apples or opt for a natural sweetener like stevia.

3. What should I do if my cake sticks to the pan? Make sure you have greased the pan well and sprinkled sugar or breadcrumbs on the bottom. If it still sticks, you can try to remove it with a spatula.

4. What drinks pair best with this cake? A cup of apple and cinnamon tea or a semi-dry white wine would perfectly complement the taste of this dessert.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! I hope this apple and walnut cake recipe quickly becomes a favorite in your family, just as it has in mine. Enjoy!