Apple pie

Apple Cake – A Flavorful Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 70 minutes
Servings: 12

An apple cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an invitation to pleasant memories, a symbol of the fall season, and a wonderful way to use fresh apples. This apple cake recipe features a fluffy base and a delicious filling, and the combination of cinnamon, lemon, and vanilla flavors makes it a true delicacy.

Let’s begin our culinary adventure!

Ingredients

For the cake base
- 7 eggs
- 175 g flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (optional, but recommended)
- 200 g sugar
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon orange zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla (powder)

For the apple filling
- 1 kg apples (preferably sweet-tart apples)
- 20 g butter
- Sugar (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 4-5 tablespoons whipped cream (or to taste)

For the syrup
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 400 ml water
- 50-100 ml rum (or rum essence, to taste)

For frosting the cake
- 500-600 ml liquid cream
- 2 packets (Dr. Oetker) of cream stabilizer

Making the cake base

1. Beat the egg whites: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Use a mixer to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add the sugar and lemon juice, continuing to beat until the mixture is glossy and firm.

2. Add the yolks and flavors: Incorporate the yolks, lemon zest, orange zest, and vanilla. Mix gently, just until combined, to avoid losing the air in the egg whites.

3. Add the flour: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gently fold it into the egg mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Do this carefully to maintain the fluffy texture.

4. Bake the base: Pour the mixture into a cake pan lined with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the base for about 40 minutes. Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the base is ready. Let it cool in the pan.

Making the apple filling

1. Prepare the apples: Peel and finely grate the apples. Place them in a pot with the butter, cinnamon, and sugar (adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the apples).

2. Cook the apples: Simmer the apples over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and release their juices, and the consistency is slightly caramelized. Let them cool.

3. Add the whipped cream: Whip the cream with a stabilizer (if using) and sweeten it with powdered sugar to taste. Fold 4-5 tablespoons of whipped cream into the cooled apples gently. Refrigerate the filling to firm up a bit.

Making the syrup

1. Caramelize the sugar: In a pot, caramelize the sugar until it turns golden. Then, carefully add the hot water (you can burn yourself, so use gloves or a towel to protect your hands).

2. Boil the syrup: Let it simmer on low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the syrup has cooled, add the rum or rum essence.

Assembling the cake

1. Slice the base: Once the base is completely cooled, slice it horizontally into three layers.

2. Soak the base: Place the first layer on a serving platter. Generously soak it with the caramel syrup.

3. Add the apple filling: Spread a layer of apple filling and then place the second layer of cake on top. Repeat the process with syrup and filling.

4. Finish with the top layer: Place the final layer of cake, soak it, and cover the entire cake with whipped cream. Use a spatula to smooth the cream on the sides and top.

5. Decorate the cake: You can decorate the cake with apple slices, cinnamon, or grated chocolate, depending on your preferences.

6. Chill the cake: Ideally, let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 4-5 hours, but if you have time, leave it overnight to let the flavors meld.

Tips and tricks

- Choose the right apples: Sweet-tart apples are best for this recipe, as they balance the sweetness of the cake.
- Check your oven: Every oven bakes differently, so it's good to check the base after 30 minutes. Don’t leave it in the oven too long to avoid burning.
- Use natural cream: Whipped cream with natural sweetener adds better texture and taste to the cake.

Possible variations

- Add nuts or almonds: You can add chopped walnuts or almonds to the apple filling for extra texture.
- Chocolate drizzle: A chocolate glaze over the whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and an explosion of flavor.
- Diverse flavorings: Instead of rum, you can experiment with vanilla or orange essence in the syrup.

Ideal pairings

This apple cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea. Additionally, a sweet wine or apple cider can complement the flavors of this dessert beautifully.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned apples?
Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

2. How long does the cake last?
The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

3. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using flaxseed eggs or other vegan alternatives for the cake base.

So, your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to make this apple cake and enjoy every bite! It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion or just to treat yourself. Bon appétit!