Apple pie

Apple Cake - A Delicacy of Autumn Flavors

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Who doesn’t love a simple yet refined dessert that brings the flavor of autumn into every bite? Apple cake is a classic recipe that evokes a touch of nostalgia and comfort, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. This cake is so versatile that it can be served as an elegant dessert or even for breakfast, alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

The story of this apple cake intertwines with memories from our grandparents’ kitchens, where fresh apples were transformed into delicious desserts using simple, natural ingredients. Apples are not only delicious but also very healthy, rich in fiber and vitamins, making them an ideal ingredient for creating a nutritious dessert.

Ingredients list:

For the apples:
- 1 ½ kg of Granny Smith apples (or any tart apples you prefer)
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 30 g of butter
- Juice of ½ lemon

For the batter:
- 6 eggs
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- ½ cup of milk

Preparing the apple cake:

Step 1: Preparing the apples
We start by preparing the apples. Peel them and, using a knife or an apple corer, remove the core without cutting them. After that, slice the apples into thin rounds. This trick will help them bake evenly and integrate perfectly into the cake. Drizzle them with lemon juice - this will not only prevent oxidation but also provide a fresh taste.

Step 2: Arranging the apples in the pan
Grease a deep baking dish with butter, ensuring it is evenly covered. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping them but leaving space for baking. Sprinkle the sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon on top. This mixture will caramelize during baking, creating a delicious and aromatic crust. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes, so the apples start to soften.

Step 3: Preparing the batter
Meanwhile, let’s take care of the batter. Separate the eggs, placing the egg whites in a large bowl and the yolks in another. Beat the egg whites with the sugar until you achieve a firm, glossy foam. Then add the yolks and continue beating for a few minutes until the mixture becomes homogeneous.

Gently incorporate the oil, flour, and baking powder. Finally, add the milk, mixing gently with a spatula until you obtain a consistency similar to thick sour cream. It is important not to overmix to keep the air in the batter.

Step 4: Combining the apples with the batter
After 15 minutes in the oven, remove the dish with the apples and pour the batter over them, ensuring to cover the entire surface. Put the dish back in the oven for another 30 minutes. Check if the cake is baked by using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!

Step 5: Cooling and serving
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving platter, so the apples are on top. If you want to add a touch of elegance, you can cover the cake with a layer of fruit jelly or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s just as delicious and simple, leaving the flavors of the apples to shine.

Helpful tips:
- Use Granny Smith apples for a pleasant contrast between sweetness and tartness. Other varieties, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, can also yield excellent results.
- Substitute some of the basic ingredients with healthier alternatives, such as whole wheat flour or coconut sugar, for a more nutritious version.
- If you want a hint of vanilla, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. They also contain antioxidants that can support heart health. This cake, despite being a dessert, can provide important nutritional value.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of fruit?
Absolutely! You can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries, but the baking time may vary.
- Is the cake good the next day?
Definitely! The apple cake can be even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld.

Possible variations:
- Instead of cinnamon, experiment with nutmeg or cardamom to add an exotic note.
- Add chopped nuts or almonds to the batter for an extra crunch.

Delicious pairings:
This cake pairs perfectly with a vanilla sauce or vanilla ice cream. Additionally, a glass of cold cider or a warm apple tea will complement this delicacy perfectly.

Apple cake is more than just a simple dessert; it’s an experience that brings together tradition, family, and the authentic flavors of nature. So, get ready to indulge your taste buds and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones with this simple yet flavorful recipe. Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends to spread the joy of cooking!