Apple pie

Fluffy Caramelized Apple Cake – A Rustic Delight

When we think of a dessert, apples often take center stage, bringing with them not just flavor but also warm memories. This fluffy caramelized apple cake combines the tradition of a Tatin tart with a delicious cake batter, offering a unique culinary experience. The history of this recipe is full of creativity, based on the idea of transforming simple ingredients into unforgettable moments. Let's embark on this captivating recipe, step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

- 100 g butter or margarine (for a richer taste, choose butter)
- 100 ml oil (sunflower oil is ideal)
- 350 g sugar (you can adjust the amount to your liking)
- 250 g flour (wheat flour is the most commonly used)
- 150 ml milk (whole milk provides a creamier texture)
- 1 packet baking powder (about 10 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- 3 medium apples (tart apples are ideal for a pleasant contrast)

Step by step in making the cake

1. Preparing the apples:
Start by peeling the apples and removing the cores. Make sure to slice them into pieces about 1.5 cm thick. If you have larger apples, 2 should be enough. These slices will absorb the caramel flavor and provide a soft, delicious texture.

2. Caramelizing:
In a pan that can be used both on the stove and in the oven, melt 100 g of butter or margarine over low heat. Add half of the sugar (175 g) and the cinnamon. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar melts and turns golden. Be careful not to burn it, as caramel taken too far can become bitter.

3. Arranging the apples:
Once the caramel is ready, remove the pan from the heat and place the caramelized apple slices directly into the caramel, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step is essential for achieving a cake with an intense apple flavor.

4. Preparing the batter:
In a separate bowl, beat the 3 eggs with the remaining sugar (175 g) until you get a fluffy mixture. Add 100 ml of oil, 150 ml of milk, and the desired essence (I recommend rum essence for a special flavor). Mix the ingredients well.

5. Incorporating the flour:
Sift the flour together with the baking powder into the egg mixture. Mix everything until you obtain a smooth batter. Make sure there are no lumps, but do not overmix; too much mixing can make the cake dense.

6. Baking:
Pour the batter evenly over the apples in the pan. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium). Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45 minutes. Check if it’s baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done.

7. Inverting the cake:
Once the cake has nicely browned, let it cool for a few minutes. Place a plate on top of the pan and carefully invert it. The caramelized apples will fall beautifully on top of the cake, creating an attractive presentation.

Personal note

This fluffy caramelized apple cake is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of nostalgia into your home. You can serve it warm, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance the flavor.

Practical tips

- Apple varieties: You can experiment with different types of apples, but a mix of tart and sweet apples is ideal for achieving a balanced taste.
- Alternative flavors: Instead of rum, you can use vanilla or almond essence to customize the cake.
- Whole wheat flour: If you want a healthier version, you can use whole wheat flour instead of white flour.
- Oven care: Every oven bakes differently, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with yours. Use a thicker-bottomed baking pan to prevent the cake from burning.

Nutritional benefits

This apple cake is a good source of fiber due to the apples, which help with digestion. It also contains healthy fats from the oil used, but it’s important to enjoy desserts in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned apples?
Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid a too wet batter.

2. How can I store the cake?
You can keep it at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can also freeze the cake to enjoy later.

3. What drinks go well with this cake?
A cup of herbal tea or a glass of warm cider are excellent choices that complement the flavors of the cake.

4. Can I add nuts or almonds?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts to the batter will provide extra texture and flavor.

This fluffy caramelized apple cake is not just a delicious dessert but also a perfect way to turn a simple snack into a memorable experience. Don’t hesitate to try it and share your own variations and cooking stories! Enjoy!