Apple Pie

Caramelized Apple Cake: a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Who can resist a cake with caramelized apples? This recipe not only combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apples with a fluffy base, but it also offers a unique visual experience. The apples, filled with nuts and strawberry jam, become the stars of this dessert, while the caramel adds a touch of sophistication. Ideal for cool days or as a dessert after a family meal, this cake will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Let's get started!

Ingredients
- 8 large apples (choose crisp apples like Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 200 g sugar (for caramel)
- 4 eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 100 g sugar (for the cake batter)
- 70 g vanilla pudding powder
- 70 g flour
- 250 ml liquid cream (you can also use plant-based cream)
- Nuts (about 100 g, chopped)
- Strawberry jam (about 150 g)
- Butter (for greasing the pan)

Necessary utensils
- 26 cm springform pan
- Pot for caramelizing
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl

Step by step

1. Preparing the caramel
Start by caramelizing the sugar. In a saucepan, pour 200 g of sugar and add a few drops of water (just enough to moisten the sugar). Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently with a wooden spoon until the sugar completely dissolves. Once it starts to boil, stop stirring and let it boil until it turns a golden color, being careful not to burn it.

2. Preparing the apples
Meanwhile, grease the springform pan with butter, ensuring it is evenly coated. Pour the hot caramel into the pan, covering the bottom evenly. Peel the apples and remove the seeds, keeping them whole. In each apple, make a small indentation and fill it with chopped nuts and strawberry jam. Arrange the filled apples in the pan, keeping them neat.

3. Baking the apples
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan with the apples in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until they become soft but retain their shape. This step is essential for achieving a dessert with the ideal texture.

4. Preparing the cake batter
While the apples are baking, prepare the cake batter. In a bowl, beat the eggs together with 100 g of sugar using the electric mixer until the mixture doubles in volume and becomes frothy. Sift together the vanilla pudding powder and flour, and incorporate them into the egg mixture using a spatula, gently folding from the bottom up to keep the batter airy.

5. Assembling and final baking
After the apples have softened, remove the pan from the oven and carefully pour the cake batter over the apples. Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done).

6. Cooling and serving
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. It’s important not to rush so that the caramel doesn’t break. Serve the cake with whipped cream and decorate with fresh fruits like strawberries or apple slices. This cake can be a true dessert and a great way to enjoy seasonal apples.

Useful tips
- Choosing the apples: Opt for apples that stay firm after baking, such as Granny Smith or Braeburn. They provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of jam, such as peach or raspberry. Also, add cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost.
- Storing the cake: This cake keeps well in the fridge, covered, for 2-3 days. The flavor intensifies as it sits.

Nutritional benefits
Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, while nuts provide omega-3 fatty acids and protein. This cake can be a healthier choice than many other desserts, based on natural fruits.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I replace sugar with a sweetener? Yes, you can use natural sweeteners, but the texture and final taste may vary.
- Can I use other fruits? Sure! You can try pears or peaches, being careful with the baking time.
- Is it necessary to use cream? No, but it adds a creamy note that perfectly complements the dessert.

This caramelized apple cake is not just a recipe, but a true culinary experience. Share it with your loved ones and enjoy the moments spent together!