Birthday cake

Caramelized Apple Birthday Cake: Delicious and Easy Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Who doesn't love a cake that combines the sweet aroma of apples with a fluffy and slightly moist texture? This caramelized apple birthday cake recipe is perfect for any special occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings. It's simple to make and adds a touch of flavor and nostalgia in every slice.

Recipe history: Apple cakes have a long-standing tradition in our cuisine, often associated with festive moments and the gathering of loved ones. Whether it's a recipe passed down through the family or discovered in specialty magazines, each version brings with it stories and memories.

Ingredients

For the apple filling:
- 2 kg apples (preferably tart apples, like green ones)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (or more, to taste)

For the cake base:
- 5 large eggs
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 1-2 drops of rum essence (optional)

For decoration:
- Whipped cream (approximately 250 ml)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the apples
- Start by peeling and coring the apples. Cut them into cubes or slices, depending on your preference.
- In a pot, add the apples, sugar, milk, and cinnamon. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When the apples have softened and the juice has reduced, remove the pot from the heat. This cooking process will intensify the flavors of the apples and create a delicious filling.

2. Preparing the cake base
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. Then, gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm and shiny foam.
- Add the egg yolks, gently folding with a spatula, then incorporate the flour gradually, mixing delicately to avoid losing air in the mixture. If you like, add the rum essence for an extra flavor boost.

3. Combining the ingredients
- In a greased baking pan or lined with parchment paper, evenly spread the apple filling.
- Pour the cake batter over the apples, making sure it is evenly distributed.

4. Baking
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. Check if it is baked by using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

5. Cooling and decorating
- Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully turn it out onto a serving plate.
- When the cake is completely cooled, decorate it with whipped cream. You can serve it plain or with a garnish of fresh fruits.

Useful tips
- Choosing the apples: Choose apples that are more tart to contrast with the sweetness of the cake base. Granny Smith or red apples are excellent choices.
- Gluten-free option: If you want a gluten-free version, you can replace the wheat flour with almond flour or rice flour.
- Serving: This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.

Nutritional benefits
Apples are a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a healthy ingredient. Additionally, this cake has a moderate calorie content, being a lighter choice for a dessert. A slice provides approximately 200 calories, depending on how it is served.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! You can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or even plums, depending on the season and your preferences.
- How can I store the cake? The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it, but it is recommended to decorate it with whipped cream only before serving.

This caramelized apple birthday cake is not just a dessert, but an experience that brings joy and beautiful memories. I wish you happy cooking and enjoyment of every slice!