Apple Pie

Delicious Apple Cake - A Family Recipe

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

It is said that apple cake is one of those desserts that evokes memories of family moments, cool autumn days, and the enticing scent of baked apples. This simple yet flavorful recipe will turn any occasion into a feast of flavors and textures. From the fluffy whipped egg whites to the sweet and juicy apples, each bite is a story of comfort and joy.

Ingredients:
- 9 eggs (preferably fresh, from local farms)
- 9 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 9 tablespoons of milk (whole milk provides a richer taste)
- 9 tablespoons of flour (type 550 flour is ideal)
- 9 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or canola oil are the most common)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (this helps the cake rise)
- Essences or zest of orange/lemon (for an extra flavor boost)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
- Apples (about 4-5 medium apples, depending on their size)

Detailed Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowls are clean, as any trace of fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping well. It is recommended to use room temperature eggs, as they whip better.

2. Whip the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the egg whites and beat them with an electric mixer on medium speed. When they start to become frothy, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy cake.

3. Incorporating the yolks: In another bowl, beat the yolks with a pinch of salt until they become fluffy and light in color. Then, gradually add them over the meringue, mixing with a spatula from bottom to top, to avoid losing air from the mixture.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: Start incorporating the flour and baking powder, alternating with the milk and oil. Also, add the essences or citrus zest for a refreshing flavor. Mix everything carefully until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

5. Preparing the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking tray with oil and dust it with flour. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking.

6. Baking the first half: Pour half of the cake batter into the tray and level the surface with a spatula. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for about 15-20 minutes, until the batter is slightly set but not fully baked.

7. Preparing the apples: Meanwhile, wash the apples, peel them, and remove the seeds, then grate them. If the apples are not very sweet, you can sauté them with a little sugar in a pan until they become slightly soft and fragrant.

8. Adding the apples: Remove the tray from the oven and evenly spread the grated apples over the first half of the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the apples and level it again.

9. Finishing the baking: Place the tray back in the oven and let it bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, the cake is ready).

10. Cooling and serving: Allow the cake to cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top, but I personally recommend serving it plain to truly savor the taste of the apples.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing apples: Sweet apples like Golden Delicious or Fuji are ideal for this recipe, but you can experiment with tart ones for an interesting contrast.
- Variations: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, nuts or raisins can add a pleasant texture.
- Serving: This cake is delicious warm, but also cold. It can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with whipped cream for a more decadent dessert.

Nutritional Benefits:

This apple cake is an excellent source of fiber, thanks to the apples, which contribute to digestion. The eggs provide quality protein, and the oil adds healthy fats. It is a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I replace the eggs with something?: Yes, you can use a mixture of ground flaxseeds with water or banana puree, but the final texture will be different.
- How long does it last?: The cake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, stored in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze the cake?: Yes, you can freeze it, but it is recommended to cut it into portions and wrap them individually for easier thawing.

In conclusion, the apple cake is not just a dessert, but an experience that brings joy and nostalgia. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to discover the joy of cooking! Every bite will be a celebration of flavor!