Apple pie

Apple and cinnamon cake – a delight that brings warmth and comfort to every corner of your home. This recipe is perfect for enjoying a quick and simple dessert, full of inviting aromas that will delight both family and guests. Additionally, it is an excellent way to use fresh apples, transforming them into a juicy and tasty dessert.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 12

History of Apple Cake

Apple cake has been a cherished dessert for generations, often associated with childhood memories when grandmothers spoiled us with warm treats fresh out of the oven. This recipe has evolved over time, with each family having unique variations that reflect available traditions and ingredients. It is a perfect example of comfort food, combining simplicity with flavor, bringing joy in every slice.

Ingredients

- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup of sugar (plus 200 g for filling)
- 1 cup of oil
- 12 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- Vanilla essence (to taste)
- 1.5 kg apples
- 1-2 tablespoons of cinnamon (to taste)
- 8 tablespoons of breadcrumbs

Preparing the Apple Cake

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by beating the eggs in a large bowl. Add 1 cup of sugar and mix well until you get a homogeneous mixture. It is essential for the sugar to dissolve completely in the eggs to avoid crystal formation. Then add the oil and continue mixing until the mixture becomes creamy.

2. Incorporating the Ingredients Gently
Gradually incorporate the sifted flour along with the baking powder. Mix gently, being careful not to form lumps. Adding the flour should be done gently, and this step is crucial for achieving a fluffy and airy dough. Finally, add the vanilla essence to taste, which will give your cake an irresistible aroma.

3. Preparing the Apples
Peel the apples and grate them on a large grater. It is important to drain them well of excess juice so that the cake does not become soggy. In another bowl, mix the grated apples with 200 g of sugar, 5 tablespoons of breadcrumbs, and cinnamon. The breadcrumbs will help absorb the juices released by the apples and will provide a pleasant texture.

4. Assembling the Cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a baking tray with a little oil or butter. Pour half of the dough into the tray, leveling it evenly. Sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs over the dough in the tray, followed by the apple mixture. This layer will provide an intense flavor and create a perfect contrast between the fluffy dough and the sweet-sour apples. Cover with the remaining dough, ensuring that the apples are well wrapped.

5. Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cake for about 60 minutes. Check if it is done by inserting a toothpick in the middle; if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked. If you notice it browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

6. Cooling and Serving
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look and serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious temperature contrast.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Apples: Use tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Ionatan, for a balanced taste. Sweet apples can make the cake too sweet.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the apple mixture for extra texture and flavor. Also, trying to add a bit of grated lemon or orange zest to the dough can give a fresh and invigorating taste.
- Storing the Cake: It keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days, and in the refrigerator, it can last up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake cut into slices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of oil?
Yes, you can use sunflower or olive oil, but make sure it is one with a neutral taste.

2. What can I use instead of eggs?
If you want a vegan version, you can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/4 cup of soy yogurt.

3. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the dough or filling, to your taste.

4. What does this cake pair with?
It is delicious alongside a warm tea or aromatic coffee. Also, vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce makes an excellent combination.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This apple cake contains approximately 250 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C, and cinnamon has antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

In conclusion, this apple cake is not just a simple recipe but also an invitation to create beautiful memories in the kitchen. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, it is a dessert that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!