Fine apple cake

Fine Apple Cake - An Unforgettable Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Who can resist an apple cake? This fine recipe, with a buttery dough and creamy filling, promises to bring a smile to anyone who tastes it. The apple cake is a perfect choice for festive meals or for a delicious snack during the afternoons. Let's discover together how to prepare it!

Ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 1 cup milk (250 ml)
- 250 g soft butter (or 160 g lard for a richer taste)
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt

*For the filling:*
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 6 tart apples (preferably, for a pleasant contrast)
- 2 tablespoons semolina

Preparing the apple cake

1. Kneading the dough: In a large bowl, mix the soft butter with the vanilla sugar and a pinch of salt. Add the milk and mix well, then add the flour and baking powder. Use your hands or a mixer to knead until you get a smooth dough. It's important not to knead too much; otherwise, the cake will become too dense.

2. Dividing the dough: Once the dough is ready, divide it into two parts. One third of the dough will be put in the freezer, while the rest will be left in the refrigerator. This step is essential to achieve a perfect texture when baking.

3. Preparing the apples: Peel the apples and slice them thinly. Mix them with the semolina in a bowl. The semolina will help absorb excess juices, keeping the filling consistent.

4. Assembling the cake: Take the dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out evenly in a large baking tray (38 x 28 cm). Make sure the dough evenly covers the bottom of the tray. Then, add the apple filling and sprinkle the apple slices on top.

5. Grating the dough: Take the dough out of the freezer and grate it directly over the filling using a large-holed grater. This will create a crispy and delicious crust.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the cake for 30-40 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy. It's important to check the cake from time to time, as each oven may bake differently.

7. Finishing: Once the cake is baked, let it cool slightly, then sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance. Cut into suitable portions and enjoy!

Tips and useful advice

- Choose the right apples: Tart apples are ideal for this recipe, as they balance the sweetness of the dough. Granny Smith apples or other similar varieties are perfect.
- A personal touch: If you want to add an extra flavor, try adding a little cinnamon to the apple mixture. This will give a warm and comforting taste.
- Serving: This cake is excellent served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce, which will add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Nutritional benefits

Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C, which contributes to a healthy immune system. Additionally, butter and sour cream provide healthy fats, and eggs are rich in protein. Despite the delights of this cake, moderation is key.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! You can replace the apples with pears or peaches, adjusting the quantities based on their juiciness.
- How do I store the cake? The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it slightly in the oven before serving.
- Can I freeze the cake? Yes, it’s an excellent choice for freezing. Cut the cake into portions and wrap them in cling film, then place them in an airtight container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Delicious combinations

This apple cake pairs wonderfully with a fragrant tea or a morning coffee. Additionally, a sweet wine or warm cider can perfectly complement the meal, adding a festive touch.

A personal memory

I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who taught us how to make this apple cake. Every slice brought to the table was filled with stories and laughter. This recipe is not just about ingredients but about the beautiful moments shared with loved ones.

Enjoy the cooking process and savor every bite of this fine apple cake! Achieve a perfect result, and your friends and family will be impressed with your culinary talent. Enjoy your meal!