Cake with white wine cream and caramelized apples

White Wine and Caramelized Apple Cake

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Are you looking for a dessert that impresses not only with its appearance but also with its flavors? Then this white wine and caramelized apple cake is the perfect choice! A refined combination of ingredients, this cake brings together the sweetness of caramelized apples with the subtlety of white wine, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

A Brief History of Wine and Apple Cake

Apple desserts have been cherished for centuries, and the combination with white wine adds a touch of elegance found in culinary traditions worldwide. This recipe is a modern reinterpretation of these traditions, perfect for special occasions as well as personal indulgence.

Ingredients

For the batter:
- 125 g butter (at room temperature for easier incorporation)
- 125 g sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 egg (preferably at room temperature)
- 250 g flour
- 1/2 packet baking powder

For the wine cream:
- 4 apples (ideally, use tart apples for a pleasant contrast)
- 500 ml semi-dry white wine (choose a quality wine, as it will influence the final taste)
- 200 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 2 packets vanilla pudding (from Dr. Oetker or a preferred brand)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a warmer flavor)

For the whipped cream:
- 250 ml liquid cream for whipping
- 1 packet whipped cream stabilizer
- Sugar to taste (about 2-3 tablespoons)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Batter
1. Start by preheating the oven to 170°C. It's essential for the oven temperature to be correct for even baking.
2. In a large bowl, mix the softened butter with the sugar and vanilla sugar until you achieve a creamy, fluffy mixture.
3. Add the egg and continue mixing until well incorporated.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, gently folding with a spatula to avoid lumps.
5. Once the batter is smooth, grease a cake pan with a little butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Preparing the Wine Cream
1. Peel the apples and grate them. Fresh apples not only add flavor but also moisture to the cake, keeping it soft.
2. In a pan, add two tablespoons of sugar and lightly caramelize it. Add the grated apples and sauté until they become slightly soft. Let them cool.
3. In a medium-sized pot, place the white wine over low heat and add the vanilla sugar, Bourbon vanilla, cinnamon, and the pudding powder previously mixed with two tablespoons of wine to prevent lumps.
4. Simmer over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens and resembles pudding. Add the caramelized apples and mix well.

Step 3: Assembling and Baking the Cake
1. Pour the wine and apple cream over the prepared batter in the pan.
2. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. After baking, let the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan.

Step 4: Preparing the Whipped Cream
1. The next day, for perfect whipped cream, whip the liquid cream with the stabilizer and sugar until it becomes firm.
2. Decorate the cake with whipped cream, sprinkling cocoa or grated chocolate on top for an elegant touch.

Useful Tips and Tricks
- Quick Dessert: If you're in a hurry, you can skip the cooling step of the cake and serve it with freshly whipped cream!
- Variations: You can substitute the apples with pears for a different flavor. Additionally, you can add nuts or hazelnuts for extra texture.
- Serving: This cake pairs wonderfully with a glass of semi-dry white wine or a warm fruit tea, enhancing the delicate flavors of the dessert.

Nutritional Benefits
This apple cake provides a source of vitamins from the apples, and the white wine adds antioxidants. Using liquid cream for the whipped cream contributes healthy fats, but be sure to consume in moderation, considering the added calories.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of wine?: Absolutely! Red wine can add an interesting note, but keep in mind it will change the color and flavor of the cake.
2. Can the cake be frozen?: Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it's recommended to decorate it with whipped cream only before serving.

This white wine and caramelized apple cake is not just a dessert; it's a true culinary experience, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. So, happy cooking!