Autumn-flavored cake

Autumn Flavors Cake: A Delicious Treat

There are moments when the aroma of autumn fruits entices our senses and reminds us of the warm days of summer. This autumn flavors cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is a celebration of the season's fruits, a sweet and slightly tangy combination, perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee. In this recipe, we will use apples and quinces, but feel free to add other fruits you love!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 250 g flour
- 250 g sugar
- 100 ml milk
- 100 ml sunflower or olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 5 medium apples (about 500 g)
- 1 large quince (about 300 g)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for the fruit)
- Cinnamon (to taste)

Preparing the Fruits:
The first step is to prepare the fruits. Wash the apples and quince well, then peel them. Use a large grater to shred them. This will allow the fruits to integrate perfectly into the batter, providing moisture and a delicious taste. After shredding, add a tablespoon of sugar over them and mix well. Let them sit for a few minutes to release some juice.

Preparing the Batter:
Meanwhile, let’s start with the batter. Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a large bowl, place the yolks together with the sugar and mix well until it becomes a creamy, light-colored mixture. This is an essential step to achieve a fluffy cake, as the air incorporated at this stage will help the batter rise.

Add the oil and milk to the yolk mixture and continue mixing. In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are well mixed and will not form lumps in the batter. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the yolk mixture, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air from the batter.

Incorporating the Egg Whites:
Now, let’s take care of the egg whites. Beat them until stiff peaks form, with a pinch of salt. These are key for a fluffy and airy cake. Start incorporating them into the yolk batter, mixing carefully from the bottom up to maintain volume. Don’t rush; this step may take a few minutes, but patience will yield a wonderful final result.

Assembling the Cake:
After you have well incorporated the egg whites, divide the batter into two equal parts. In a loaf pan lined with parchment paper and greased, pour the first half of the batter. Then, drain the juice released by the apples and quince and add the fruits to the pan, being careful not to press them down too much. This will allow the fruits to distribute evenly in the cake, giving it a delicious texture. Pour the remaining batter on top and, for an extra flavor boost, drizzle a few tablespoons of the fruit juice.

Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (high heat) and place the pan in the oven for 5 minutes. After this interval, reduce the temperature to 160°C (low heat) and let the cake bake for 30-35 minutes. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 20 minutes, as the cold air can prevent the batter from rising properly. Check if it is done by inserting a toothpick in the center: if it comes out clean, the cake is baked!

Finishing:
Once the cake is baked, let it cool slightly in the pan, then remove it to a wire rack to cool completely. While it is still warm, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top; this detail will add a warm and comforting aroma.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:
This autumn flavors cake is fantastic served plain, but you can accompany it with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperature and texture. You can also add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for an extra crunch and sweetness.

If you want to experiment, you can replace the apples with pears or add spices like nutmeg or ginger to give it a unique twist.

Nutritional Information:
This cake contains approximately 250 calories per serving, making it a decent choice for a dessert, thanks to the fruit content that provides vitamins and fiber. Apples and quinces are rich in antioxidants and contribute to digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples and quinces?
Yes, you can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or plums.

- How can I keep the cake fresh?
You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or freeze it for later use.

- Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour, but make sure to add a binding agent (like xanthan) to achieve the right texture.

This autumn flavors cake is not just a dessert, but an experience you can share with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it at a family meal or bring it to a gathering with friends, it will surely impress. So, embrace this recipe and savor every bite! Enjoy!