Apple, walnut and cream cheese dessert cake

Apple, Walnut, and Cream Cheese Dessert: A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

I will present a cake recipe that combines the warm and comforting flavors of apples with the crunchy texture of walnuts and delicate cream cheese. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from a gathering with friends to a family celebration. I found inspiration in a recipe by Andrea, but I added a few personal tricks to turn this cake into a true culinary masterpiece. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 2 hours (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the base (24 cm diameter):
- 4 eggs
- 150 g butter
- 150 g walnut halves
- 200 g flour
- 130 g sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the apple filling:
- 2 kg apples (preferably Ionatan or another sweet-sour variety)
- 75 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon

For the cream cheese:
- 250 g cream cheese
- 70 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 200 ml whipped cream

For the chocolate cream:
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 200 g milk chocolate

For decoration:
- 100 ml liquid cream
- 20 g powdered sugar

Preparing the cake

Step 1: Preparing the oven and ingredients
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect base, so don't skip it! Then, prepare a 24 cm cake pan by lining it with baking paper.

Step 2: Toasting the walnuts
Place the walnut halves in the prepared pan and put them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden and release a pleasant aroma. Be careful not to let them burn! After they have cooled, chop them lightly.

Step 3: Preparing the base
In a bowl, mix the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you achieve a fluffy and light-colored mixture. Add the melted (and cooled) butter, orange zest, and cinnamon, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture, then the chopped walnuts.

Step 4: Baking the base
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 35 minutes. Check if the base is baked using a toothpick: if it comes out clean, it's done! Let it cool in the pan.

Step 5: Preparing the apple filling
While the base cools, peel the apples, remove the cores, and cut them into small cubes. In a pot, combine the apples with the sugar and cinnamon, then sauté them over medium heat until they soften and release their juice. Once cooled, you can use them for the filling.

Step 6: Cream cheese
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla sugar until it becomes a smooth paste. Carefully fold in the whipped cream, mixing gently to keep it airy.

Step 7: Assembling the cake
Cut the base into three equal parts (if they are not perfectly equal, don't worry, every cake has its uniqueness). Soak each layer with a syrup made from water and sugar (optionally, you can add a little orange juice for extra flavor). Place a layer of apples over the first base, followed by some of the cream cheese. Continue with the second base and repeat the process.

Step 8: Chocolate cream
To prepare the chocolate cream, heat the liquid cream until just about to boil, then pour in the chopped chocolate and mix until you achieve a smooth cream. Let it cool slightly and pour it over the last layer of cake, allowing it to gently flow over the edges.

Step 9: Decorating
Whip the liquid cream with the powdered sugar until it becomes firm and decorate the cake as your imagination dictates. You can add chopped walnuts or chocolate flakes for a more attractive look.

Step 10: Cooling and serving
Let the cake chill in the fridge for a few hours (preferably overnight) to set and meld the flavors. Serve it with a vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, if desired.

Useful tips:
- You can replace walnuts with hazelnuts or almonds for a different variant.
- If you prefer a more sour taste, add a few slices of lemon or orange between the apple layers.
- This cake can be stored in the fridge for a few days, but it will be tastiest in the first 2 days.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are a rich source of fiber and vitamins, while walnuts add healthy fats and protein. The cream cheese and whipped cream provide extra calcium and energy, making this dessert a suitable choice for a special occasion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use apples from other varieties?
Yes, any variety of apples that you like can be used, but sweet-sour ones provide the best flavor.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and use more sour apples.

3. Is it possible to make the cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour for the base, but ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

This apple, walnut, and cream cheese cake is not just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that evokes memories and brings joy. So, unleash your imagination and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!