Cheap and delicious apple pie

The perfect dessert for those moments when you want to treat your family or friends to something sweet, but don't have much time, is undoubtedly the cheap and delicious apple cake. This simple and quick dessert combines the juicy flavors of apples with the fluffy texture of the batter, resulting in a cake that melts in your mouth. Let's discover this recipe together!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 1 cup (about 250 g) of flour
- 200 g of sugar
- 5 apples (preferably tart for a pleasant contrast)
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (about 10 g)
- Butter for greasing the pan
- Breadcrumbs for sprinkling on the bottom and sides of the pan

The history of apple cakes is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary tradition. Apples have been cultivated and appreciated over the centuries, and their use in desserts has become a common practice in many cultures. This simple cake is a modern reinterpretation of these traditions, bringing a touch of nostalgia in every bite.

Preparation:
1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Make sure it is well heated before putting in the cake to achieve even baking.

2. Prepare the pan: Grease a baking pan (preferably 20x30 cm) with butter and sprinkle breadcrumbs on the bottom and sides. This will help the cake to easily release after baking. The breadcrumbs will create a slightly crispy crust on the outside, contrasting pleasantly with the soft interior.

3. Prepare the apples: Wash and peel the apples. Cut them into thin slices or cubes, depending on your preference. If you want a touch of originality, you can add a splash of lemon juice over the apples to prevent oxidation and give them a fresher taste.

4. Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, beat the 3 eggs with 200 g of sugar until you have a smooth and frothy mixture. You can use an electric mixer to make this step faster. Then, add the sifted flour and baking powder, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. Avoid overmixing, or the batter will become dense.

5. Incorporate the apples: Add the apple slices to the batter and gently mix to incorporate them evenly. This step is important to ensure that every bite will have delicious apples.

6. Pour the batter into the pan: Once you have a smooth batter, pour it into the prepared pan. Make sure it is evenly distributed so that the cake bakes evenly.

7. Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the middle of the cake; if it comes out clean, it’s done).

8. Cool and serve: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, you can transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. It can be served warm or at room temperature, with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the batter. These flavors perfectly complement the apples and add an extra touch of refinement.
- You can experiment with the types of apples used. Granny Smith apples provide a pleasant contrast between sweet and tart, while Gala apples bring natural sweetness.
- This recipe can easily be adapted by adding nuts or raisins for extra texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, making them excellent for digestion. They are also low in calories, making this cake a healthier choice than many other desserts. The flour and eggs provide the necessary proteins and carbohydrates for energy, and sugar can be reduced according to personal taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned apples? While it is possible, the result will be different. Fresh apples provide a more intense texture and flavor.
- How can I store the cake? You can keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it, but it is recommended to consume it fresh.

Pair this cake with a cup of herbal tea or flavored coffee for a perfect indulgent moment. The cheap and delicious apple cake is not just a dessert, but also a way to create beautiful memories around the table with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and don't hesitate to share this recipe with your dear ones, turning every occasion into a celebration!