Delicious apple cake

Delicious Apple Cake – a simple and flavorful recipe

I propose you indulge yourself with a delicious apple cake, a recipe that combines the juicy sweetness of apples with a fluffy and aromatic texture. This is a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a relaxing afternoon or to impress guests at a festive meal. Plus, it's a great way to use fresh seasonal apples.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients you need:
- 125 g butter (at room temperature)
- 125 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- a pinch of salt
- 200 g flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 5 tablespoons of milk
- 4-5 apples (preferably sweet and aromatic)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple or pear brandy (optional, for extra flavor)

Preparing the cake:

1. Start with the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, as this will help achieve a more even texture. Take the butter out of the fridge an hour before you start.

2. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 175°C to heat while you prepare the batter. This step is important to ensure even baking of the cake.

3. Preparing the batter: In a large bowl, add the butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer to combine them until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. This will add air to the batter, helping the cake to be lighter.

4. Add the eggs: Incorporate the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully integrated into the mixture before adding the next.

5. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting the flour will help prevent lumps. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar cream, alternating with the milk. Mix until everything is well combined, but do not overdo it – you don't want a too dense batter.

6. Preparing the apples: Peel the apples, remove the seeds, and cut them into quarters. An interesting idea is to lightly score them lengthwise without cutting all the way through, allowing them to open beautifully during baking. This will add a rustic and appetizing look to the cake.

7. Assembling the cake: Grease a baking pan with butter and dust it with flour. Pour the batter into the pan, smoothing it with a spatula. Place the scored apples on top of the batter, sprinkling them evenly. They will partially sink into the batter during baking, creating a wonderful visual effect.

8. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for about 45 minutes or until it turns golden. You can check if it's done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

9. Preparing the glaze: While the cake cools, mix the powdered sugar with apple or pear brandy if you choose to use it. This will add a layer of flavor and sweetness to your cake.

10. Serving: When the cake is ready, let it cool slightly in the pan, then turn it out onto a plate and pour the glaze over it while it's still warm. The delicious apple cake pairs perfectly with a serving of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, adding a pleasant contrast of temperatures and textures.

Useful tips:
- Choose the right apples: Sweet-tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Gala, are ideal for this cake. They provide the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.
- Possible variations: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra flavor boost. You can also replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Storage: The cake keeps well at room temperature, covered, for 2-3 days. It can also be frozen, cut into individual slices.

Nutritional values (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Protein: 3 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Yes! You can substitute apples with pears, peaches, or even berries for a different version.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar by 20% or use alternative sweeteners.

This delicious apple cake is not just a simple dessert, but a true experience that combines childhood memories with moments of culinary pleasure. Whether you serve it at a family meal or enjoy it alone, each slice will bring you joy. So, don your cooking apron and let yourself be carried away by the aromas of this wonderful cake!