Apple pie

Apple and Sweetener Cake: A Flavorful Delight for Everyone

Who doesn’t love a fluffy, aromatic cake that brings a touch of joy to every day? The apple cake, made with sweetener, is not only a delicious choice but also an excellent solution for those seeking a healthier option, whether they are diabetics or individuals pursuing a dietary lifestyle. This cake combines the natural sweetness of apples with the wonderful aroma of cinnamon and a fluffy texture, perfect for enjoying at any time of the day.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12

Ingredients
- 6 large apples (preferably a soft variety, such as Golden apples)
- 8 eggs
- 3 teaspoons of liquid sweetener
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 150 g low-fat yogurt
- 50 ml walnut oil (or any preferred type)
- 8 heaping tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of semolina
- Ground cinnamon (to taste)
- A pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Apples: Start by peeling the apples. Use a sharp knife to slice the apples thinly. It’s essential that the slices are uniform to ensure even baking. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle a little cinnamon over them to enhance their flavor.

2. Preparing the Baking Tray: Line a large baking tray with parchment paper, making sure it is well-covered so the cake doesn’t stick.

3. Arranging the Apples: Evenly distribute the apple slices in the tray. You can arrange the apples in layers or in decorative shapes, depending on your preference. Sprinkle the semolina on top, which will help absorb the juices from the apples during baking.

4. Preparing the Mixture: In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the yolks with the liquid sweetener, lemon zest, vanilla extract, yogurt, and oil. Mix these ingredients well until you achieve a smooth batter. Then, add the flour and mix until fully incorporated.

5. Beating the Egg Whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until frothy. Once the egg whites are well-beaten, add the baking powder and continue beating until you achieve a firm foam.

6. Finalizing the Mixture: Take a portion of the egg white foam with a spatula and fold it into the yolk mixture. Gently mix with upward strokes to avoid losing the air in the egg whites. Add the remaining egg whites, continuing to fold delicately.

7. Baking: Carefully pour the cake mixture over the apples in the tray, ensuring it covers the fruit evenly. Smooth the surface gently with a spatula. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray inside. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the cake turns golden and passes the toothpick test.

8. Cooling and Serving: After baking, allow the cake to cool in the tray. Once cooled, flip the cake with the apples side up. You can serve it plain or with a drizzle of low-fat yogurt on top for added flavor.

Practical Tips
- Choosing Apples: Opt for apples that have a firmer texture, such as Golden or Granny Smith, as they hold their shape and don’t turn completely to mush during baking.
- Sweetener: Sweetener is an artificial sweetener that can vary in strength. Be sure to adjust the amount according to your personal taste preferences.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the cake mixture for extra texture and flavor. Additionally, you can substitute the yogurt with another low-fat dairy product, such as cottage cheese.
- Storing the Cake: This cake stores very well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for a few days.

Nutritional Benefits
The apple cake is a healthy option due to its simple and natural ingredients. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, and using sweetener instead of sugar significantly reduces the calories. This cake is an excellent choice for those who want a tasty dessert without compromising their health.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches, which will bake similarly.
2. Is there a vegan version of this cake? Yes, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseeds (1 tablespoon of flaxseeds + 3 tablespoons of water = 1 egg).
3. What pairs well with this cake? You can enjoy it with a cup of green tea or a cold lemonade, and vanilla ice cream would make a delicious contrast.

Conclusion
The apple and sweetener cake is not just a delicious dessert; it’s a symbol of simple joy and healthy cooking. So gather your ingredients and allow yourself to enjoy the aroma of fresh apples and the fluffy texture, while treating yourself to this easy-to-make recipe. Whether you serve it at a festive meal or simply as a weekly dessert, I promise it will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!