Apple cake with caramel cream

Apple pie with caramel cream – a delicacy that combines the nostalgic flavors of childhood with a fine texture and a unique taste. This recipe is ideal for moments when you want to impress your guests or simply indulge in a delicious dessert.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 150 g sugar
- 900 ml boiling water
- 4-5 grated apples (approximately 500 g)
- 100 g ground walnuts
- 13 tablespoons flour
- 4 tablespoons starch
- 100 ml oil
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the caramel cream:
- 150 g sugar
- 500 ml hot water
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 1-2 tablespoons starch (to taste)
- 125 g margarine
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
- Fruit jam (optional, to thin the cream)

For decoration:
- Grated chocolate or colorful candies

Recipe history:
Apple pie with caramel cream has deep roots in culinary traditions, being a dessert that has been prepared through generations. Apples, a symbol of autumn fruits, have always been appreciated for their sweetness and aroma, while the caramel cream adds a sophisticated and decadent touch. This pie is often associated with festive moments but can be enjoyed any day of the year.

Preparation:

Step 1: Caramelizing the sugar
Start by caramelizing 150 g of sugar. Use a heavy-bottomed pot to avoid burning the sugar. Over low heat, stir constantly until the sugar melts and turns golden. Be careful not to let it become too dark, or it will taste bitter. Once caramelized, carefully add 900 ml of boiling water (watch out for the steam) and mix well to obtain a uniform syrup. Let the mixture cool.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
After the caramel syrup has cooled, add the grated apples and ground walnuts. Mix well. Then, add 13 tablespoons of flour, 4 tablespoons of starch, 100 ml of oil, baking powder, and cinnamon. Mix everything until you obtain a homogeneous mixture, similar to a cake batter.

Step 3: Baking the pie
Prepare a baking tray (approximately 30x20 cm) by lining it with baking paper. Pour the dough into the tray and smooth the surface. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the pie for about 40 minutes. In the end, do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the pie is ready. Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 4: Preparing the caramel cream
In another pot, caramelize 150 g of sugar. Once it has melted, add 500 ml of hot water and mix well. Then add 5 tablespoons of flour and 1-2 tablespoons of starch, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring over low heat until the cream thickens. Add the rum essence and let the cream cool.

Step 5: Assembling the pie
After the cream has cooled, beat the margarine with a mixer until fluffy. Gradually incorporate the cooled cream, spoon by spoon, until you achieve a smooth consistency. If the cream is too thick, add a few tablespoons of your favorite fruit jam to give it a more fluid texture.

Step 6: Decorating
After the pie has completely cooled, spread the cream on top and smooth it evenly. You can decorate the pie with grated chocolate or colorful candies for a festive look.

Practical tips:
- Choose sweet and aromatic apples for a more intense flavor.
- If you don’t have margarine, you can use butter, but make sure it is at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Instead of walnuts, you can add almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and cream.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries, depending on the season.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie stores well in the refrigerator, covered with cling film, for a few days.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using vegan margarine and replacing the eggs with a mixture of water and flaxseeds or mashed banana.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This pie is a good source of fiber due to the apples and walnuts, while the caramelized sugar provides a quick energy boost. On average, a serving of pie contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the proportions of the ingredients used. Apples bring vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, while walnuts contribute healthy fats and protein.

Serving suggestions:
Apple pie with caramel cream pairs perfectly with a cup of herbal tea or a strong espresso. If you want to add a touch of freshness, vanilla ice cream alongside the pie will create a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I invite you to venture into making this apple pie with caramel cream! Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this dessert will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!