Apple Cake - Recipe 400

Caramelized Apple Cake - Delicious and Easy Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8

In the culinary world, apple cake is a classic that always brings smiles and pleasant memories. Whether served at a family gathering, a celebration, or simply as a tasty dessert after dinner, this cake combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apples with a fluffy texture and a hint of caramelization. Today, I will guide you step by step through this recipe, providing you with tips and useful advice to achieve a perfect result.

The ingredients you need are easy to find, and each one plays an essential role in creating this delicious dessert.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of apples (preferably sweet and tart varieties, such as Golden or Granny Smith)
- 1 cup of brown sugar (adds a hint of caramelization)
- 100 g of butter (for a rich flavor)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar (to sweeten the batter)
- 2 tablespoons of cinnamon (for flavor)
- 5 eggs (essential for aerating the batter)
- 5 tablespoons of flour (for structure)
- 100 ml of liquid cream (for added creaminess when serving)

The story behind the recipe:
This apple cake has become a favorite in many households, thanks to its simplicity and comforting taste. The origins of apple cake are ancient, being a dessert that has crossed generations, bringing families together around the table. From breakfast to evening dessert, apple cake has always been an inspired choice, and today we will create a delicious version that will impress everyone.

Making the cake:

1. Preparing the apples:
- Start by washing and peeling the apples. Remove the core using a knife or a special apple corer. Cut them into slices or cubes, depending on your preference.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.

2. Caramelizing the apples:
- In a round baking dish (preferably a heat-resistant ceramic or glass dish), add the brown sugar. Arrange the peeled and cored apples over the brown sugar, making sure to lay them out evenly.
- In the cavity left by the apple cores, add a small piece of butter, a sprinkle of sugar, and a bit of cinnamon. This will provide a delicious flavor and help with caramelization.

3. Baking the apples:
- Place the dish in the oven and bake the apples for 20-25 minutes, until they become soft and aromatic.

4. Preparing the batter:
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with the remaining granulated sugar until creamy and light in color.
- Gradually add the sifted flour, mixing gently to avoid lumps.
- Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks and carefully fold them into the yolk mixture.

5. Combining the mixture:
- Once the apples have cooled slightly, pour the batter over them, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

6. Baking the cake:
- Place the dish back in the oven and bake the cake for 30 minutes, or until the batter is golden and elastic to the touch.

7. Cooling and serving:
- Once the cake is baked, cover it with a clean towel and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.
- Carefully turn the cake onto a platter and allow it to cool completely.
- Serve it with liquid cream on top after letting it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours to firm up a bit.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the apples are ripe but not completely soft, to maintain a pleasant texture in the cake.
- You can add chopped nuts or almonds to the batter for a crunchy texture or even a bit of vanilla for added flavor.
- If you love bolder flavors, try adding a splash of rum or brandy to the apple mixture before baking.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches, but adjust the baking time according to the fruits used.
- How can I keep the cake fresh?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 3 days.

Recommended pairings:
This apple cake pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or freshly brewed coffee. You can also try serving it alongside vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

In conclusion, caramelized apple cake is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that brings joy and nostalgia. I hope this recipe inspires you to start cooking and share this delight with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!