Grated apple cake with candied fruits

Shredded apple and candied fruit cake: a delicacy that brings joy to every corner of the home

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Introduction
Like a story full of flavor, the shredded apple and candied fruit cake is a recipe that reminds us of cozy moments spent with family around the table. This cake is not just a dessert, but a true culinary masterpiece that combines the sweetness of apples with the intense flavors of candied fruits. It is perfect for an afternoon spent with friends or to pamper the family at a festive meal. Let’s discover together how we can achieve a perfect result!

Necessary ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (about 300 grams) sugar
- 1 cup oil (sunflower oil is ideal)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 cups of shredded apples (about 3-4 large apples)
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda extinguished with vinegar or lemon juice
- Turkish delight, raisins, cherries from compote, or other candied fruits (according to preference)

A bit of history
The shredded apple and candied fruit cake is a traditional recipe that has its origins in the households of the past, where every ingredient was skillfully used to create delights. Apple trees have been cultivated for thousands of years, and their use in cakes became a popular way to preserve fruits for winter. Candied fruits, in turn, were an invention of older times when people sought methods to keep the flavor of fresh fruits for longer periods. This cake blends tradition with innovation and promises to bring a smile to the faces of loved ones.

Step by step: how to prepare the perfect cake
1. Preparing the ingredients
Make sure you have all the ingredients at room temperature. This will help achieve a uniform and fluffy texture. If using garden apples, it is recommended to wash them well, as we will use the skin. Remove only the core and seeds.

2. Beating the eggs
In a large bowl, add the 4 eggs and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them well until the mixture becomes frothy and doubles in volume. This step is crucial for allowing the cake to be fluffy and airy.

3. Adding the wet ingredients
Add the pinch of salt, vanilla sugar, and oil. Continue mixing to combine the ingredients well.

4. Including the shredded apples
Now is the time to add the shredded apples. Gently fold with a spatula so as not to lose the air in the mixture.

5. Incorporating the dry ingredients
In another bowl, sift the 2 cups of flour together with the extinguished baking soda. This step will ensure an even distribution of the leavening agent. Add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently.

6. Adding the candied fruits
Now, it’s time to add the candied fruits. You can use diced Turkish delight, raisins, or cherries from compote, depending on your preferences. These will add a note of sweetness and an interesting texture to the cake.

7. Preparing the baking pan
Grease a pan with butter and sprinkle flour on the bottom to ensure the cake does not stick. You can use a 20x30 cm pan to achieve a suitable thickness for the cake.

8. Baking the cake
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level it evenly. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the pan inside. Let the cake bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cooling and serving
After the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a more attractive appearance.

Serving suggestions
The shredded apple and candied fruit cake is delicious both warm and cold. We recommend serving it alongside a cup of warm milk or fragrant tea. Additionally, you can add a spoonful of sour cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of flavor.

Variations and useful tips
- Vegan version: You can replace the eggs with banana or apple puree, and the oil with coconut oil for a vegan version of this cake.
- Seasonal fruits: Experiment with seasonal fruits, such as peaches or pears, to diversify the flavor of the cake.
- Storage: The cake keeps well at room temperature for 3-4 days, and in the fridge, it can last up to a week.

Nutritional benefits
This cake contains apples rich in fiber, which help with digestion and contribute to heart health. The candied fruits provide a source of antioxidants, and the oil contributes healthy fats. However, it is good to know that, having a high sugar content, it should be consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use peeled apples?
It is recommended to use apples with skin, as this adds fiber to the cake. If you prefer without skin, make sure the apples are well washed.

2. What can I use instead of sugar?
For a healthier option, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but you will need to adjust the quantity.

3. How can I make the cake fluffier?
Make sure you mix the eggs well with the sugar and do not skip the extinguished baking soda, as it helps the cake rise.

This shredded apple and candied fruit cake is not just a sweet delight, but also an opportunity to create unforgettable moments with loved ones. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its aromas! Enjoy!