Apple Cake

Hello, dear cooking friends! Today I invite you to discover a special recipe that combines the sweet flavors of apples with a fluffy and delicious base, perfect for enjoying at a family meal or a gathering with friends. It is a simple recipe, but with a spectacular result: Caramelized Apple Cake.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8

About the recipe
The origins of this apple cake are lost in the mists of time, being a recipe loved by generations. Apples are a staple ingredient in many cultures, appreciated not only for their sweet taste but also for their nutritional benefits. This cake is a true delight, with a contrast between the fluffy texture of the base and the juiciness of the caramelized apples, and a splash of vanilla and rum transforms it into a true splendor.

Ingredients
- 6-7 apples (choose sweet apples, such as Golden or Granny Smith for a balanced taste)
- 250 g butter (at room temperature)
- 170-180 g sugar (if you want a moister base, opt for 180 g)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 pinch of salt
- 120 g sugar (for the sponge)
- 120 g flour
- Various flavors (vanilla, rum, lemon zest)
- Chocolate for decoration (optional)
- 1 packet of dessert foam (for example, from Dr. Oetker)
- 150 ml milk

Step by step

Step 1: Preparing the apples
Start by peeling the apples and removing the core. If you want to add extra flavor, make a small hole in the middle of the apples and fill them with raisins, nuts, and a little jam. Place the apples in a buttered baking dish, making sure the butter is soft, not melted.

Step 2: Caramelization
Sprinkle the sugar (170 g or 180 g, depending on preference) over the apples placed in the dish, ensuring they are evenly covered. This step will help caramelize the apples during baking. Place the dish in the preheated oven at maximum temperature for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the batter
Meanwhile, separate the egg yolks from the whites. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a stiff foam. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until you achieve a firm foam. A trick you can use is to add a few drops of lemon if the foam isn't stiff enough.

In another bowl, beat the egg yolks until homogeneous, then add your preferred flavors (rum, vanilla, lemon zest). Then, gently fold in the egg white foam and flour, mixing lightly with a whisk, using circular motions to maintain the air in the foam. It is important to do this slowly to avoid losing the fluffy texture of the batter.

Step 4: Baking
Remove the dish with the apples from the oven and let it cool slightly. After that, add the batter over the apples and place the dish back in the oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, without opening the oven in the first 20 minutes, to allow the base to rise properly. Check with a toothpick to see if it is baked inside.

Step 5: Serving
Once the cake is baked, invert it onto a platter so that the caramelized apples are on top. Serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a portion of dessert foam with whipped cream flavor and crushed chocolate. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can omit the chocolate.

Practical tips
- Use fresh, quality apples for the best taste. Softer apples will add juiciness, while firmer ones will provide better texture.
- If you want a fluffier cake, feel free to add a teaspoon of baking powder to the flour.
- Experiment with various flavors, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to customize the cake to your taste.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can replace the apples with pears or peaches, but the baking time may vary.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in the fridge, covered, for 2-3 days. Gently reheat it before serving to restore its fluffy texture.

3. Is it possible to make the cake gluten-free?
Sure! You can use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour.

Nutritional benefits
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants. Eating apples can help improve digestion and maintain heart health. Additionally, the eggs and milk in the recipe provide the necessary proteins for a balanced diet.

Delicious pairings
This apple cake pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or a sweet white wine. It can also be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast.

I hope this recipe brings you joy and unforgettable moments in the kitchen! Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to create something special. Enjoy!