Apple pie (a kind of dessert with apples)

Apple Cake - a delight that combines the classic flavors of caramelized apples with a fluffy crust, ideal for any occasion. This recipe, inspired by ancient traditions, brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth in every slice. Get ready to explore the necessary steps to create this delicious cake, perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of tea or coffee!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 380 g of flour
- 185 g of margarine (soft, at room temperature)
- 110 g of powdered sugar
- 2 small eggs (approximately 90-100 g total)
- Grated zest of 1 lemon (for a fresh taste)

For the filling:
- 80 g of butter
- 140 g of granulated sugar
- 5-6 apples (preferably sweet-tart apples)
- 100-115 g of chopped nuts (not ground)
- Cinnamon and cloves (ground, to taste)

For brushing:
- 4-5 tablespoons of apricot jam (for a touch of sweetness and shine)

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the soft margarine and powdered sugar. Use a spatula or mixer to combine the two ingredients well until you achieve a creamy mixture.

2. Adding the eggs: Incorporate the two eggs, mixing continuously. Make sure the eggs are well integrated, which will help the dough become more elastic.

3. Including the flour: Add the flour and lemon zest. Mix with a wooden spoon or by hand until the dough begins to form. If it is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of cold water until you achieve a smooth texture.

4. Resting the dough: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This is the perfect time to prepare the filling.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. Cooking the apples: In a large skillet, melt the 80 g of butter over medium heat. Add the washed, peeled, and quartered apples, then slice them thinly. Stir gently, being careful not to crush them.

2. Caramelizing: Once the apples have softened, sprinkle in the granulated sugar and continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the mixture to cook until the juice released by the apples evaporates and the mixture becomes slightly sticky.

3. Adding spices: Once the apples are ready, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly. Add the chopped nuts, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 3: Assembling the cake

1. Preparing the baking pan: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). Choose a pan with a diameter of 36 cm, which will allow the cake to bake evenly.

2. Spreading the dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Reserve 1/4 of the dough for decoration. Roll out the remaining 3/4 by hand directly in the ungreased pan, ensuring it reaches the edges, forming a crust about 3 cm high.

3. Adding the jam: Spread the 4-5 tablespoons of apricot jam evenly over the bottom of the crust. This layer will add a sweet note and prevent moisture from affecting the dough.

4. Filling with apples: Add the previously prepared apple filling, smoothing it out to ensure even baking.

5. Decorating with dough: Grate the reserved dough over the filling. This step will add a pleasant texture and create a golden crust.

Step 4: Baking and serving

1. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.

2. Cooling: After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack.

3. Serving: Cut the cake into squares of about 5 cm. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. Enjoy it warm alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or serve it with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Helpful tips

- Choosing the apples: Use sweet-tart apples for a perfect contrast between sweet and sour. Granny Smith or Jonagold apples are excellent options.
- Nuts: Nuts add a crunchy texture and rich flavor. You can replace them with almonds or pistachios to vary the flavor.
- Variations: Experiment with other jams, such as raspberry or peach jam, to add a different touch of sweetness.
- Storing the cake: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

Nutritional information (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 250 kcal
- Fats: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Proteins: 3 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace margarine with butter?
Absolutely! Butter provides a richer taste and a more pleasant aroma. Make sure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and use more tart apples. You can also omit the powdered sugar on top.

3. What can I use instead of nuts?
If you have allergies or prefer a nut-free version, you can omit this ingredient entirely or replace it with sunflower seeds.

This apple cake will surely become a favorite among your loved ones, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces with every enjoyed slice. So, embark on the cooking adventure and enjoy every step of the process!