Apple Pie

Apple Cake Recipe: A Fragrant Childhood Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 12

Are you dreaming of a cake that brings back the aroma of your childhood? An easy-to-make apple cake, with a tender crust and a sweet-tart filling, is exactly what you need! Whether you enjoy it with coffee among friends or prepare it for a special event, this recipe will surely put a smile on your face.

The history of apple cakes is rich and steeped in tradition, making it a beloved dessert in many cultures. Apples, an accessible and versatile ingredient, have been used in various combinations over time, adding a touch of freshness and sweetness. This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to apples, which are a good source of fiber and antioxidants.

Necessary ingredients:
- 220 g of butter (82% fat) – essential for a flaky crust
- 350 g of flour – provides structure to the cake
- 1 heaping tablespoon of yogurt – for added moisture and flavor
- 1 egg and 1 egg yolk – to bind the ingredients
- 140 g of sugar – sweetens the filling
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder – helps the cake rise
- 1 packet of vanilla (or vanilla extract) – for a fragrant taste
- Organic orange zest – a detail that adds a touch of freshness
- 12 Jonagold apples – the ideal choice for sweetness and acidity
- Cinnamon – for a warm and comforting aroma
- ½ cup of brown sugar – for the filling and a caramelized note
- Vanilla powdered sugar for decoration – for an elegant look
- Flour and cornstarch in equal parts for dusting – to prevent the dough from sticking

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Add the cold butter cut into small cubes. It's important for the butter to be cold to achieve a flaky dough. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

2. Adding wet ingredients:
Add the egg, egg yolk, sugar, vanilla, and yogurt. Mix well with a spatula or your hands until the dough becomes smooth. If you want to add an interesting twist, you can incorporate grated orange zest, which will give a wonderful aroma.

3. Chilling the dough:
Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out later.

4. Preparing the apples:
Meanwhile, wash and peel the apples. Grate them with the skin on, then gently squeeze to remove excess juice. This will prevent the dough from becoming too wet.

5. Rolling out the dough:
Sprinkle flour and cornstarch on a work surface. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first part into a thin sheet and place it in a buttered rectangular baking dish.

6. Adding the filling:
Evenly distribute the grated apples over the dough. Sprinkle sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla over the apples. These will add a layer of sweetness and unique flavor.

7. Covering the cake:
Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it over the filling, making sure to poke it with a fork in several places. This step will allow steam to escape during baking, preventing excessive puffing.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy.

9. Serving:
Once baked, let the cake cool slightly, then cut it into squares. Dust with vanilla powdered sugar for an elegant appearance. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea.

Helpful tips:
- For an even flakier dough, you can use butter with a higher fat content.
- If you enjoy bolder flavors, add a bit of grated ginger to the filling for an unexpected twist.
- Instead of apples, you can experiment with pears or peaches, adjusting the baking time according to the fruits used.

Frequently asked questions:
- What is the best type of apple for this recipe? Jonagold apples are excellent, but you can also use other types, such as Granny Smith for a tarter taste.
- Can I store the cake? Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it slightly before serving.
- Can I freeze the cake? It is recommended to freeze it before baking. Place the dough and filling in the pan, cover with plastic wrap, and put it in the freezer. When you want to prepare it, let it thaw and then bake according to the instructions.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to immune system health and digestion. Butter provides healthy fats, while yogurt adds beneficial probiotics.

This apple cake will not only delight your taste buds but also evoke a sense of well-being through the memories it brings back. It's a perfect dessert for any occasion, and its flavors will embrace your family and friends. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy a slice of this delicacy!