Dessert - Apple pie with vanilla cream by Lorena M. - Recipia
Apple and Vanilla Cream Cake: A Flavorful and Refreshing Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

The history of apple cakes is rich in flavor and tradition, with deep roots in the cuisines of many cultures. Generally, apple cakes are often associated with festive occasions, especially made in the fall when apples are at their tastiest. This wonderful recipe for apple cake with vanilla cream combines the delicate texture of the dough with the sweetness of the apples and the creaminess of a fine cream, making it a dessert loved by the whole family.

Here’s how to prepare this delicious cake step by step.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 550 g flour
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 1 packet baking powder
- 250 g cold butter
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 2 tablespoons semolina

For the filling:
- 6-7 apples
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Juice of half a lemon

For the cream:
- 1 l milk
- 8 egg yolks
- 200 g sugar
- 120 g flour
- 1 packet bourbon vanilla sugar
- Zest of half a lemon

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and powdered sugar. These ingredients are the base of your dough, so make sure to mix them well to evenly distribute the baking powder.

Add the cold butter, cut into cubes, and knead with your fingertips until you achieve a crumb-like consistency. It is essential for the butter to be cold, as this will contribute to the tender texture of the dough.

Then, add the sour cream, lemon zest, and egg yolks. Mix everything well until the dough comes together and forms a non-sticky ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is crucial, as chilling the dough will make it easier to roll out.

2. Preparing the Vanilla Cream

While the dough is chilling, you can prepare the vanilla cream. In another bowl, beat the 8 egg yolks with the sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture doubles in volume and becomes lighter in color. This process is essential for achieving a light and smooth cream.

Add the flour, cornstarch, and warm milk. Mix well to avoid lumps, then transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens, similar to pudding. Let it cool, but remember to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on top.

3. Preparing the Apples

Peel the apples, cut them in half, and remove the cores. Slice the apples thinly and drizzle them with lemon juice to prevent oxidation. This step will not only keep the apples' color but also add a pleasant acidity.

4. Assembling the Cake

Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a sheet of parchment paper, roll out the first half of the dough into a rectangular sheet. This step is important as the dough is very fragile and can easily break.

Sprinkle a tablespoon of semolina over the dough, then place the apple slices on top. Over the apples, sprinkle the two tablespoons of sugar, cinnamon, and a tablespoon of semolina. These ingredients will add flavor and help absorb the moisture from the apples.

After placing the apples, spread the vanilla cream evenly over them. This cream will add a velvety texture and delicious taste.

From the second half of the dough, roll out another sheet, then cut strips to form a lattice. Place these strips over the cake, creating an attractive pattern.

5. Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat). Place the tray in the oven and bake the cake for about 45 minutes, or until the edges become slightly golden. It is advisable to check the cake from time to time to avoid burning.

6. Serving

Once the cake is baked, let it cool completely in the tray. Then, dust with powdered sugar and cut into portions. A personal suggestion would be to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting, except for the butter, which should be cold.
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can include some chopped nuts in the apple filling for extra crunch.
- It is important to let the cake chill in the fridge for a few hours after baking; this will enhance its flavor and texture.
- The cake can be stored in the fridge for a few days, becoming even better as the flavors develop.

Nutritional Values (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 320 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can use any type of apple you prefer, but the best ones are the tart ones, which provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cream.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use tarter apples.

3. Is it possible to use plant-based milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, you can replace cow's milk with almond or oat milk, but make sure to choose an unsweetened one to avoid altering the cake's flavor.

4. Can I prepare the cake a day in advance?
Absolutely! The cake keeps well in the fridge and usually tastes better after sitting for a few hours, as the flavors intensify.

This apple and vanilla cream cake is a dessert that brings joy to any meal. Whether you serve it at a special event or simply to treat yourself, it is definitely an inspired choice. Try making it and enjoy every bite!

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Dessert - Apple pie with vanilla cream by Lorena M. - Recipia

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