Apple Pie

Apple Cake with Nuts and Raisins

If you're looking for a simple yet flavorful dessert, the apple cake is the perfect choice. This dessert not only looks spectacular but is also an explosion of flavors, combining the sweetness of baked apples with the crunchy texture of nuts and raisins. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time and will surely become one of your favorites. Making the apple cake is a joyful experience, and the final result will make the hearts of your loved ones beat faster.

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

Ingredients:
- 5-6 medium apples (choose sweet and fragrant apples, such as Golden or Fuji)
- 4 large eggs (fresh, preferably organic)
- 100 g walnut kernels (coarsely chopped)
- 100 g raisins (optional, but adds a touch of sweetness)
- 8 tablespoons of flour (you can also use wholemeal flour for a healthier option)
- 1/2 packet of baking powder
- 250 g sugar (you can adjust the amount to taste)
- Butter for greasing (about 30 g)
- Vanilla essence (optional, for an extra flavor)
- Whipped cream (for serving, natural or hulala recommended)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Take a 26 cm round cake tin and grease it with butter, ensuring you cover the edges well. Evenly sprinkle 100 g of sugar on the bottom of the tin. This step will create a caramelized crust that will add a delicious texture to your cake.

2. Filling the apples: Peel the apples and remove the cores using a special knife or an ice cream scoop. Each apple will be filled with a few walnut pieces and some raisins. Make sure to generously fill each apple, as these ingredients will provide a perfect contrast to the tart flavor of the apples.

3. Baking the apples: Place the filled apples in the prepared tin and bake them for about 20 minutes, or until they become slightly soft. This step is essential as it allows the apples to release their juices and flavors, enriching the dessert.

4. Preparing the sponge mixture: While the apples are baking, you can prepare the batter. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 150 g of sugar until the mixture becomes frothy. Add the flour and baking powder, mixing well. Finally, fold in the whipped egg whites, being careful to add them gradually to maintain the batter's airiness. If desired, you can add a few drops of vanilla essence for extra flavor.

5. Assembling the cake: Once the apples have cooled slightly, take the tin out of the oven and pour the sponge mixture over the caramelized apples. Ensure that the batter evenly covers all the apples.

6. Baking the cake: Put the tin back in the oven and bake the cake for 40 minutes or until it turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cooling and serving: After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes in the tin, then invert it onto a platter. You can decorate the cake with whipped cream before serving, adding a sprinkle of grated chocolate or some crushed nuts for an elegant look.

Practical tips:
- Use different types of apples for a more complex flavor.
- If you prefer, you can replace the nuts with almonds or pistachios for a different note.
- The apple cake pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce, adding an extra indulgence.
- If you want to reduce sugar, you can try using a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup.
- This dessert is excellent the next day when the flavors have intensified!

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Nuts provide healthy fats and protein, while raisins offer quick energy due to their high natural sugar content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned apples? It is recommended to use fresh apples, as canned ones can make the cake too wet.
- Can I add other fruits? Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches, but make sure they are ripe and not too juicy.
- How can I store the cake? It keeps well in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

The apple cake is not just a dessert; it is a story of flavor and texture, perfect for enjoying with family or friends. So, put on your chef's attire and let yourself be carried away by the magic of cooking!