Apple cake with burnt sugar cream

Apple and Burnt Sugar Cream Cake: A Delicacy for the Whole Family

Get ready to indulge your taste buds with a dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the richness of a burnt sugar cream, all presented elegantly! This apple and burnt sugar cream cake recipe is not just a delicious dessert but also a symbol of warmth and joy around the family table. Let’s begin our culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the cake:
- 3 large apples (choose sweet apples like Golden or Fuji for a rich flavor)
- 8 eggs (preferably from free-range hens for a more authentic taste)
- 50 g butter (for added flavor)
- 500 ml milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan option)
- 14 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste if you prefer a sweeter dessert)
- 3 tablespoons of flour (to bind the mixture)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence (for an inviting aroma)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (this will add a warm and comforting note)
- Whipped cream for decoration (optional but recommended for an appetizing look)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (for caramelization)

A Bit of History

Apples have been cultivated for thousands of years, and apple cakes are a tradition in many cultures. This apple and burnt sugar cream cake combines two pastry techniques: caramelization and baking, resulting in a dessert that blends textures and flavors. It is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings.

Step by Step: How to Prepare the Apple and Burnt Sugar Cream Cake

1. Caramelizing the Sugar
Start by preparing the base of the cake. In a cake pan (preferably with removable edges), add the 4 tablespoons of sugar and place it over low heat. Stir constantly until the sugar turns into a golden caramel. Whether you prefer a lighter or darker color, be careful not to burn the sugar, as it will give a bitter taste. Once the caramel is ready, let it cool slightly, spreading it evenly on the walls of the pan.

2. Preparing the Apples
Peel the 3 apples and cut them in half. Place them with the hollow side up in the caramel-coated pan. In each hollow of the apples, add a small piece of butter. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of sugar on top. This combination will enhance the flavor of the apples during baking.

3. Baking the Apples
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan with apples in the oven and let it bake for 20 minutes, until the apples become soft but not fully cooked.

4. Preparing the Egg Cream
In a large bowl, beat the 8 eggs until frothy. Add the milk, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and vanilla essence, continuing to mix well. This cream will add a delicious layer to the cake.

5. Combining the Ingredients
After the apples are baked, carefully pour the egg cream over the apples. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for a smooth texture.

6. Preparing the Sponge Cake
In another bowl, prepare the sponge cake batter from the 3 eggs, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 3 tablespoons of flour. Beat well until you obtain an airy mixture. This batter will form a layer over the burnt sugar cream.

7. Finalizing the Cake
Carefully pour the sponge cake batter over the egg cream. Put the cake back in the oven for another 30 minutes. The cake is ready when the top is well set and has taken on a golden color.

8. Cooling and Serving
After the cake is baked, let it cool slightly in the pan, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Leave the pan on the cake for a few minutes to allow the caramel to flow over the cake. After an hour, place the cake in the refrigerator for a few hours (ideally overnight for the flavors to meld).

9. Decorating
Once the cake has cooled and the caramel has set, lift the pan and decorate the cake with whipped cream, as desired. You can also add some fresh apple slices for a more attractive appearance.

Practical Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for an even texture.
- If you want a more aromatic cake, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the egg cream.
- The cake can be served warm or cold, but it is especially refreshing on warm days.

Delicious Pairings
This apple and burnt sugar cream cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce. Additionally, a fruit tea or a flavored coffee can complement this dessert beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits
Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, while eggs provide quality protein. Milk brings calcium and vitamin D, and cinnamon is known for its antioxidant properties. Thus, this cake is not only delicious but also packed with valuable nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I replace the eggs? Yes, you can use a mixture of mashed banana or an egg replacement product for a vegan option.
- How can I store the cake? The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days.
- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! You can experiment with peaches, plums, or cherries, adjusting the baking time according to the chosen fruits.

Now that you have gone through the steps to create this apple and burnt sugar cream cake, all that’s left is to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cake will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!