Apple pie with grated dough

Apple and Walnut Dessert: A Delightful Treat

In a world full of sophisticated desserts, sometimes the best choice is a simple cake, yet bursting with flavor. The apple cake with grated dough is a perfect example of a recipe that combines the natural flavors of apples with the crunchy texture of the dough, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. This cake is ideal for an afternoon with friends or a family gathering. Cooking is an art, and every recipe has its story. Let’s discover together how to prepare this wonderful cake!

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of Servings: 12

Ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 380 g flour
- 250 g butter (at room temperature, cut into cubes)
- 150 g sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 4 tablespoons ground walnuts
- 1 packet baking powder

*For the filling:*
- 1.5 - 2 kg apples (preferably sweet-tart apples)
- A few tablespoons of sugar, to taste

*Additionally:*
- 4-5 tablespoons ground walnuts (for sprinkling on top)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Dough

Start by preparing your ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation into the dough. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and ground walnuts. This combination will give the dough a deep flavor and interesting texture.

Add the cubed butter, sugar, and egg yolk. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture becomes crumbly. Don’t worry if it seems like it’s not coming together at first. Keep kneading, and after about 15 minutes of work, you will achieve a non-sticky and homogeneous dough.

2. Chilling the Dough

Once you have the perfect dough, divide it into two equal parts. Form two balls and wrap them in plastic wrap. Place them in the freezer for 20 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator for another 10-15 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a crunchy texture when baking.

3. Preparing the Filling

In the meantime, take care of the apples. Wash them well, then peel and grate them using a large grater. This will help release the juice from the apples, making the cake moist and flavorful. Mix the grated apples with sugar, adjusting the amount based on how sweet your apples are.

4. Assembling the Cake

Remove the first ball of dough from the refrigerator. Use a large grater to grate the dough directly into a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Make sure to distribute the dough evenly, but don’t press too hard to maintain an airy texture.

Add the apple filling (make sure to drain any excess juice) and grate the second ball of dough on top. For added flavor, sprinkle 4-5 tablespoons of ground walnuts over the top dough. This ingredient adds a crunchy and flavorful note.

5. Baking the Cake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). Place the dish in the oven and bake the cake for about 40 minutes or until it becomes golden and nicely browned. At this point, the whole house will be filled with the inviting aroma of baked apples and walnuts.

6. Serving and Storing

After the cake is ready, let it cool slightly in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. It can be served warm, plain, or with a scoop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream for an even more delicious experience.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Apples: Choose sweet-tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, to achieve a pleasant contrast between the sweetness of the dough and the acidity of the apples.
- Vegan Option: You can replace the butter with vegan margarine and the egg yolk with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, left to sit for 10 minutes).
- Enhancements: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling for an even more aromatic flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is a good source of carbohydrates from apples and walnuts, providing essential fiber and antioxidants. The walnuts add healthy fatty acids, and the butter, although calorie-rich, contributes to a rich and savory texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can it be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen after it has completely cooled. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

- What drinks pair best?
A cup of warm tea or aromatic coffee perfectly complements this cake. Additionally, a sweet wine or cider would be excellent choices for a more sophisticated dessert.

I wish you much success in preparing this apple and walnut cake! I encourage you to experiment and put your personal touch on the recipe. Cooking is a joy, and every recipe is an opportunity to create special moments with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!