Fluffy Apple Cake

Fluffy Apple Cake for Lent – a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that combines the sweet taste of apples with a fine, fluffy texture, perfect for any occasion. This cake is not only delicious but also a friendly option for those who choose to fast, while still preserving the flavors and beauty of a traditional cake.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 servings

Ingredients

For the base:
- 250 g of plant-based yogurt (or vegan yogurt)
- 15 tablespoons of sugar
- 10 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1.5 cups of sparkling mineral water (for a fluffier batter)
- 23-25 tablespoons of flour, heaped
- 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder
- Grated zest of one orange (adds a fresh aroma)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder (optional, for a color contrast)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

For the filling:
- 1.8 kg of apples (about 5-6 large apples, preferably sweet-sour varieties)
- 3-4 tablespoons of oil
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- Sugar (to taste)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the filling
1. Start by washing the apples thoroughly, then peel them. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin, being careful not to lose the flesh.
2. Grate the apples on a coarse grater and squeeze out the juice well. This will help avoid a too-wet batter.
3. In a pan, add the oil and the squeezed apples. Place the pan over medium heat and sauté the apples for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the vanilla sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of sugar. Mix and let the mixture cool.

Step 2: Preparing the base
1. In a large bowl, combine the plant-based yogurt with the sugar. Use a whisk or a mixer on low speed to mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the oil and continue mixing. Then, pour in the sparkling water, baking powder, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Mix well so that all the ingredients combine perfectly.
3. Start adding the flour gradually, mixing constantly. The batter should be slightly thicker than that for sponge cake, but not too dense.

Step 3: Assembling the cake
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium).
2. Prepare a large baking tray, grease it with margarine (or oil) and lay down parchment paper.
3. Pour half of the batter into the tray and bake for 10-12 minutes, until it gets a slight golden color.
4. Once the base has started to set, remove the tray from the oven and evenly add the apple filling. Then pour the remaining batter on top.
5. If desired, you can mix a few tablespoons of the cocoa batter with a little water and make cocoa stripes on top of the cake. Use a toothpick to create a nice pattern.
6. Put the tray back in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is baked (check with a toothpick – if it comes out clean, it’s done).

Step 4: Finishing and serving
1. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tray. Then, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a sweet and aesthetic touch.
2. Cut the cake into pieces and serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a complete culinary experience.

Helpful tips
- Apples: Choose sweet-sour apples for a balanced taste. Granny Smith or Jonagold apples are excellent choices.
- Sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. If you like less sweet cakes, you can reduce the amount by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Cocoa option: If you want, you can add more cocoa for a brown base. Make a separate cocoa batter and use it to create a more complex pattern.
- Serving: This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla (vegan) ice cream or a vegan caramel sauce.

Nutritional information
This fluffy apple cake is a healthier choice as it uses plant-based yogurt and oil instead of butter. Additionally, apples provide important vitamins and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. Each serving contains approximately 180-200 calories.

Personal story
I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who made apple cakes every weekend. The aroma of baked apples and cinnamon filled the entire house, and I eagerly awaited to taste the first slice. This recipe reminds me of those lovely moments, and now I can share it with you, adapted to be more accessible for everyone.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
- Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted with pears, peaches, or even berries for a fresher version.

2. How can I keep the cake longer?
- It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for 3-4 days.

3. What drinks pair best?
- A warm cup of mint tea or a fruit tea will perfectly complement the sweet-sour taste of the cake.

In conclusion, the fluffy apple cake is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dessert. Whether you savor it with family or friends, this recipe will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!