Caramelized Apple Cake

Caramelized Apple Cake - A Sweet Revelation

I propose we embark on a journey together to prepare a caramelized apple cake, a simple yet exceptionally delicious dessert. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also fill your home with an irresistible aroma of apples and cinnamon. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this cake that combines the natural flavors of apples with the sweetness of plum jam and the fluffy textures of sponge cake.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20-90 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:

- 8-9 apples (medium-sized, preferably sweet-sour varieties)
- 6 fresh eggs
- 6 tablespoons of oil (you can use sunflower oil or olive oil for a milder taste)
- 1 cup of sugar (divided into 3 tablespoons for caramelizing and the rest for the sponge)
- 1 cup of flour (preferably type 000, for a finer sponge)
- 1 pinch of salt
- Plum jam (approximately 200 g)
- Nuts (chopped, about 100 g)
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration, optional)
- Whipped cream (for serving, optional)

A bit of history:

Caramelized apple cake is a recipe rooted in the cooking traditions of many cultures, where apples are considered a symbol of abundance and health. Caramelizing the apples not only intensifies their flavor but also gives them a unique texture, turning them into a seasonal delight. This recipe has passed through generations, each adding its personal touch, and now it's your turn to contribute!

Step by step to a perfect cake:

1. Preparing the apples:
- Wash the apples well under a stream of cold water. Peel them using a knife or a peeler. Use quality apples, as they will influence the final taste of the cake.
- Remove the cores of the apples with a knife or a special corer. Here, add a splash of lemon juice to prevent oxidation.

2. Caramelizing:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Grease a baking pan with butter or oil (you can use a round or square pan, depending on your preference).
- Evenly sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of sugar on the bottom of the pan, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Place the apples in the pan, side by side, and put them in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the sugar melts and caramelizes, turning golden.

3. Preparing the sponge:
- In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy sponge.
- Beat the yolks with 6 tablespoons of oil until creamy.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt using a mixer. When they start to stiffen, gradually add a cup of sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a stiff and glossy meringue.
- Pour the yolk mixture over the egg whites, then add the flour and mix everything with a spatula, using gentle bottom-to-top movements to retain the air in the egg whites.

4. Assembling the cake:
- Remove the apples from the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle cinnamon over them and fill each apple with plum jam and chopped nuts.
- Pour the sponge mixture over the apples, ensuring they are evenly covered.
- Put the pan back in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the toothpick test passes (the toothpick should come out clean).

5. Serving:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a plate. You can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look.
- Serve it warm or cold, alongside fresh whipped cream for a perfect culinary experience.

Practical tips:

- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a little vanilla extract to the sponge mixture.
- Use apples that hold up well during baking, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious varieties.
- You can experiment with different types of jam, such as apricot or blackberry jam, to vary the taste.
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar in the sponge or opt for sugar-free jams.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned apples?
- While it is possible to use canned apples, the texture will not be the same. Fresh apples provide superior taste and consistency.

2. How can I store the cake?
- The cake is best stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days.

3. Can the cake be frozen?
- Yes, you can freeze the cake, but it is recommended to slice it before freezing. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

In conclusion, this caramelized apple cake is not just a simple recipe but a true culinary experience that combines flavors and textures to create a memorable dessert. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. Each slice will bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it, and you will be proud of the final result. Enjoy!