Apple pie with cornflakes

The apple cake with cornflakes is a delicacy that brings together the aromatic flavors of fresh apples with the crunchy texture of cornflakes, creating an unparalleled culinary experience. This simple yet refined recipe is perfect for gatherings with friends as well as for personal indulgence. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for those looking to prepare a quick and tasty dessert without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients

- 50 g of butter (for a rich taste, choose high-quality butter)
- 100 g of white chocolate (white chocolate adds a sweet and creamy note)
- A pinch of cinnamon (for a warm and comforting aroma)
- 200 g cornflakes (make sure they are unsweetened)
- 1 egg white (to add volume and aeration)
- 500 g of apples (choose sweet and aromatic apples, such as the Ardelean variety)
- Juice of half a lemon (to prevent the apples from oxidizing and to add acidity)

For the meringue:

- 3 egg whites (fresh, for a light and fluffy meringue)
- 200 g of sugar (fine sugar melts more easily in meringue)

For greasing the pan:

- Butter

Step by Step Preparation

1. Preparing the cake base:
In a bowl, cream the softened butter with the melted (but slightly cooled) white chocolate and a pinch of cinnamon. This combination will give the cake a sweet aroma and rich flavor. Make sure not to let the chocolate cool too much, as it will be harder to incorporate into the butter.

2. Incorporating the cornflakes:
Lightly crush the cornflakes to make them easier to integrate into the mixture. Add them to the bowl with chocolate and butter, along with the lightly beaten egg white. Mix with a spatula, being careful not to lose air from the egg white.

3. Preparing the apples:
Wash, peel, and slice the apples thinly. Drizzle them with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and maintain a vibrant color. This step is essential to add a contrast of acidity to the cake.

4. Assembling the cake:
Pour the cake mixture into the greased cake pan (24 cm diameter). Arrange the apple slices evenly on top of the batter. This layer of apples will add moisture and flavor to the cake.

5. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 200 °C and place the cake inside. Bake for 15 minutes, until the apples begin to caramelize but remain crunchy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

6. Preparing the meringue:
While the cake is baking, beat the 3 egg whites with the sugar until you achieve a firm and shiny meringue. It is important that the bowl and utensils are completely clean and dry to achieve perfect meringue.

7. Finalizing the cake:
After 15 minutes, remove the cake from the oven and spread the meringue on top. Reduce the oven temperature to 180 °C and return the cake for another 30 minutes, until the meringue is beautifully browned. Be careful not to burn it, monitoring closely.

8. Serving:
Let the cake cool slightly before cutting it into slices. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweet cream for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information

The apple cake with cornflakes is a lighter option compared to other desserts. Each serving has approximately 250 calories, providing a combination of carbohydrates from apples and cornflakes, proteins from egg whites, and healthy fats from butter. Apples also offer fiber and essential vitamins, making this dessert not only tasty but also nutritious.

Variations and Tips

- Apple variations: Experiment with different apple varieties, such as Granny Smith for a tart note or Fuji apples for a sweeter taste.
- Flavoring: Add some chopped nuts or raisins for an extra texture and flavor.
- Serving: The cake can be served with homemade caramel sauce or a drizzle of honey for an even sweeter taste.
- Ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream complements this cake perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate will add a more intense flavor, but make sure to adjust the sugar amount according to your preferences.

2. How can I make the cake gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free cornflakes and ensure that the other ingredients are also gluten-free.

3. How long can the cake be stored?
The cake keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

4. What drinks pair well with this cake?
A cup of warm herbal tea or a glass of sweet white wine will excellently complement the flavors of the cake.

This apple cake with cornflakes is not just a recipe, but a tradition of bringing friends and family together around the table. Each slice is an invitation to stories and memories, and making it becomes an unforgettable experience. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to impress your guests or treat yourself to this delicious dessert!