Apple Pie

Caramelized Apple Cake with Cinnamon and Nutmeg

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 8

The history of this apple cake blends tradition with innovation, rooted deeply in the culinary practices of many cultures. Apples, a symbol of fertility, have been used for centuries in desserts and pastries, and the combination with cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm and comforting fragrance, perfect for indulgent moments.

In this simple and delicious recipe, the caramelized apples take center stage, enriching a light and fluffy batter, turning each slice into a memorable culinary experience. Here’s how to prepare it step by step, with useful tips and tricks for a perfect result.

Ingredients

- 4 large eggs
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 5 medium apples (preferably sweet-tart varieties like Golden or Jonagold)
- 50 g butter (for caramelizing and greasing)
- 1 tablespoon of oil (for egg yolks)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (plus extra for decoration)
- 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the apples
- Start by peeling the apples: wash them well, then remove the seeds and cut them into thick slices about 1 cm wide. To prevent oxidation, you can sprinkle the slices with juice from half a lemon or place them in a bowl of cold water.

2. Caramelizing the apples
- In a non-stick skillet, add 3 tablespoons of sugar and let it melt over medium heat. Stir gently to prevent burning. When the sugar turns golden, add 1 teaspoon of butter and the apple slices (make sure they are well-drained). Stir gently until the apples become soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Preparing the batter
- In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Using a mixer, beat the egg whites with the 4 tablespoons of sugar until they form stiff peaks. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake.
- In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with a tablespoon of oil, then add the flour, baking powder, vanilla sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until you achieve a smooth batter.

4. Combining the ingredients
- Using a spatula, gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture. Do this with delicate folding motions to avoid deflating the egg whites.
- Once the mixture is uniform, pour the batter into a well-greased round cake pan.

5. Adding the apples
- Distribute the caramelized apple slices on top of the batter, adding a few pieces of butter and a sprinkle of sugar mixed with cinnamon for a crunchy and flavorful topping.

6. Baking
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and bake the cake for 30-40 minutes. Check if it’s done using the "toothpick test": insert a toothpick into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

7. Finishing and serving
- Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate. You can drizzle it with the leftover caramelized sugar sauce from the apples for added sweetness. Serve warm or at room temperature, alongside fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable combination.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the apples: Opt for sweet-tart apples that caramelize well, such as Granny Smith or Fuji. They will provide a delicious flavor and a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the sugar.
- Vegan option: You can replace the eggs with a mixture of 1 mashed banana or 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg, and the butter with margarine or vegetable oil.
- Storage: The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave to restore its fluffy texture.
- Serving: This cake pairs beautifully with a warm tea or a sweet white wine, adding a refined touch to any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned apples? Yes, but make sure to drain them well before use to avoid a soggy batter.
- Why separate the egg whites from the yolks? This helps achieve an airy and fluffy texture for the cake.
- How can I tell if the cake is baked? Use the toothpick method; if it comes out clean, the cake is done!

Nutritional Benefits

This apple cake is a good source of fiber due to the apples, with a moderate sugar content. Although it is a dessert, it can be enjoyed in moderation and can be part of a balanced diet. Each slice has approximately 220 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

In conclusion, this caramelized apple cake is not just a simple recipe, but also a perfect choice for any occasion. The warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, combined with the sweetness of the caramelized apples, will turn every meal into a celebration. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your tastes by adding favorite ingredients such as nuts or raisins. Enjoy!