Apple cake with biscuits and sponge cake

Apple Cake with Biscuits and Sponge Cake

If you are looking for a quick and delicious dessert that reminds you of warm autumn days and the aroma of fresh apples, then this apple cake with biscuits and sponge cake is the perfect choice. This recipe is a family treasure, passed down from my mother-in-law, and is a fascinating combination of layers of crunchy biscuits, fragrant sautéed apples, and fluffy sponge cake. Not only is it easy to make, but it is also an explosion of flavors that will delight everyone!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 250 g butter or margarine (for a rich flavor, use butter)
- 250 g plain biscuits (digestive or oat biscuits)
- 4 large apples (preferably sweet-tart varieties)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (helps enhance the flavors)
- 4 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- 4 fresh eggs
- 4 tablespoons sugar (for sponge cake)
- 4 tablespoons flour (for a light texture)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vinegar (to activate the baking soda)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration, optional)

Preparing the cake:

1. Preparing the tray:
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Then, take a 20x30 cm tray and evenly grease it with cold butter. This step will help prevent the cake from sticking to the tray and will add a delicious flavor.

2. The biscuits:
Crush the biscuits into small pieces using a food processor or a rolling pin. Sprinkle the crushed biscuits evenly over the bottom of the greased tray. This will form a crunchy and tasty base for the cake.

3. The apples:
Peel and grate the apples. In a pan, add the grated apples and sauté them over medium heat. If the apples are very sweet, you can skip adding sugar. However, if you prefer a sweeter cake, add the 4 tablespoons of sugar. After the apples have softened, add the cinnamon and mix well. Let them cool slightly before placing them on top of the biscuits.

4. Preparing the sponge cake:
In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with 4 tablespoons of sugar until you get a firm foam. This process will give the sponge cake an airy texture. In another bowl, mix the yolks with the baking soda activated with a teaspoon of vinegar. Then, combine the two mixtures: gradually add the yolks to the egg whites, mixing gently with a spatula in an up-and-down motion to avoid losing the air in the mixture.

5. Incorporating the flour:
Sprinkle the flour over the sponge cake mixture, in a rain-like manner, and continue to mix gently until fully integrated. It is essential not to overmix to maintain the fluffiness.

6. Assembling the cake:
Pour the sponge cake mixture over the sautéed apples, making sure to cover evenly. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until the sponge cake has risen and passes the toothpick test (when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean).

7. Cooling and serving:
After baking, let the cake cool completely in the tray. Then, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance and a touch of sweetness.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the apples: Use apples of various varieties for a more complex taste. Sweet apples like Gala or Fuji can be combined with tart ones like Granny Smith.
- Optional additions: You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the apple mixture for an extra texture and flavor.
- Serving: This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A cup of tea or coffee will complete the moment perfectly.

Nutritional benefits:
This apple cake provides a good source of fiber from the apples, and the biscuits add carbohydrates for energy. It is a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or even cherries, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store the cake?
It is recommended to store it in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

3. Is it possible to make the cake without sugar?
Yes, you can omit the sugar or use natural alternatives such as honey or natural sweeteners.

4. What drinks pair well with this cake?
A cup of mint tea or an espresso will perfectly complement the cake's flavor.

This apple cake with biscuits and sponge cake is more than just a dessert; it is a piece of family heart, a symbol of culinary traditions and moments spent together. Try this recipe and enjoy every bite!