Apple pie

Fluffy Apple Cake - a sweet and fragrant delight

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

In a world full of sophisticated desserts, the fluffy apple cake stands out for its simplicity and elegance. This recipe combines the natural flavors of apples with the light and fluffy texture of the batter, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. It is also a versatile recipe that can be adapted according to individual preferences.

A brief history of apple cakes

Apple cakes are among the oldest desserts, with deep roots in traditional cuisine. Apples, being an accessible and versatile fruit, have been used for centuries in various sweet and savory dishes. This cake, with its airy texture and caramelized apple filling, evokes childhood memories when our grandmothers prepared treats from seasonal fruits.

Necessary ingredients

To make this delicious cake, you will need the following ingredients:

- 4 fresh eggs
- 18 tablespoons of sugar (preferably fine sugar or coconut sugar for a healthier taste)
- 18 tablespoons of milk (you can use cow's milk or alternatively plant-based milk, if you prefer)
- 18 tablespoons of oil (sunflower oil or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 24 tablespoons of flour (white or whole wheat flour, depending on preferences)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 kg of apples (sweet or tart, depending on taste)
- 2 heaping tablespoons of sugar for the apples
- Cinnamon (to taste, vanilla can also be used for extra flavor)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Step by step: Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the apples:
- Start by peeling the apples. Wash them well, then grate them using a large grater. This will allow the apples to cook evenly and release the delicious juice that will enrich the cake.
- Place the grated apples in a skillet over medium heat, adding the 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook them until the juice they release reduces, and the apples become soft. Finally, add cinnamon, mixing well to combine the flavors. Let them cool.

2. Preparing the batter:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until frothy. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to achieve an airy texture.
- Add the oil and continue to mix until well incorporated.
- In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Then, gradually add this mixture to the egg batter, alternating with the milk. Gently mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until you achieve a homogeneous batter. Don't worry if it's a bit runny; this is the desired texture.

3. Assembling the cake:
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour half of the cake batter. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Bake the cake for 15 minutes. This step is essential to create a stable base for the apples.
- After the time is up, remove the tray from the oven and carefully add the caramelized apples on top. Then, pour the remaining batter without leveling it with a spoon, allowing air to circulate and form a golden crust.

4. Final baking:
- Put the cake back in the oven for another 25-30 minutes, or until it becomes golden and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
- Once baked, let it cool in the tray for a few minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

5. Serving:
- Once the cake has cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. You can also add a few slices of fresh apple for decoration.
- This cake is usually served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of herbal tea to complete the tasting experience.

Practical tips:

- If you want to add a unique touch, you can include grated lemon zest in the cake batter. This will bring an extra freshness.
- Substitute half of the flour with almond flour for a richer texture and unique flavor.
- Make sure the apples are well drained of juice before adding them to the cake to avoid making it too wet.

Nutritional information:

- Calories per serving: approximately 250 calories
- Benefits: This cake contains apples, which are rich in fiber and vitamins, contributing to a healthy diet. The oil brings healthy fats, and the eggs provide essential proteins.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or even berries. Just make sure to adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the chosen fruits.

- How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in an airtight container for 3-4 days at room temperature or 1 week in the refrigerator.

- Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the sliced cake. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

The fluffy apple cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is an experience that brings joy and warmth in every slice. Make it for your family and let them discover the authentic taste of childhood!