Poppy seed cake with cheese and apples

Poppy seed, cheese, and apple cake: a delicacy that combines tradition and flavor in every slice

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Today, I invite you to discover a recipe for poppy seed, cheese, and apple cake that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia in every bite. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive meal or a simple afternoon spent with loved ones. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 125 ml milk
- 400 g flour
- 1 cube of yeast
- 100 g sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 150 g butter

For the poppy seed filling:
- 250 ml milk
- 30 g butter
- 50 g semolina
- 250 g poppy seeds
- 150 g sugar
- 2 cl rum

For the apple and cheese filling:
- 100 g butter
- 100 g sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons of milk
- 600 g cottage cheese
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 lemon
- 30 g raisins
- 6 apples
- powdered sugar for decoration

Preparing the dough:

1. Start by warming the milk slightly, ensuring it is pleasantly warm to the touch, not hot. This will activate the yeast, making the dough fluffy and delicious.

2. Sift the flour into a large bowl, creating a well in the center. Here, break the cube of yeast and add a few tablespoons of warm milk along with a teaspoon of sugar. Mix gently, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 15 minutes. While the yeast works its magic, you can prepare the other ingredients.

3. Once the yeast has risen, add the remaining milk, the rest of the sugar, salt, and melted butter. Knead the dough vigorously until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise again in a warm place until it doubles in size.

Preparing the poppy seed filling:

4. In a saucepan, bring the milk and butter to a boil. Add the semolina and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

5. After the semolina has cooked, incorporate the poppy seeds, sugar, and rum. Mix well to obtain a smooth filling and let it cool slightly.

Preparing the cheese filling:

6. In a bowl, beat the butter with the granulated sugar and vanilla sugar until creamy. Add the egg yolks, milk, cottage cheese, cornstarch, raisins, lemon zest, and juice. Mix well until smooth. This mixture will give the cake a creamy texture and a sweet-sour taste.

Assembling the cake:

7. On a floured work surface, knead the dough slightly. Roll it out to about 0.5 cm thick, then place it in a greased rectangular baking dish, allowing the edges to hang over slightly. Cover it and let it rise again for a quarter of an hour.

8. Meanwhile, peel the apples, remove the cores, and cut them in half. Score them lightly and drizzle with lemon juice to prevent oxidation.

9. Once the dough has risen, spread a tablespoon of cheese filling, followed by a tablespoon of poppy seed filling, alternating until all the ingredients are used. Place the apple halves on top, cut side up. Brush them with a little melted butter for added flavor.

Baking:

10. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

11. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and brush it hot with melted butter. Dust with powdered sugar and cut into suitable pieces for serving.

Practical tips and variations:

- You can experiment with different types of apples, choosing the most aromatic ones or your favorites.
- If you prefer a healthier version, replace the butter with olive oil or coconut butter.
- Add chopped nuts or almonds to the cheese filling for extra crunch.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea.

Nutritional benefits:

- Poppy seeds are an excellent source of calcium, iron, and essential fatty acids, playing an important role in bone and heart health.
- Cottage cheese is rich in protein, contributing to the maintenance of muscle mass and overall health.
- Apples are a good source of fiber and antioxidants, positively impacting digestion and cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of flour for the dough?
Yes, you can try whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a healthier option.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the fridge for a week.

3. Is this a good recipe to make with kids?
Absolutely! Involve them in the preparation process and let them express their creativity by choosing various fillings or decorations.

The poppy seed, cheese, and apple cake is not just a simple recipe, but a culinary experience that will transport you back in time, evoking sweet memories. So, don’t hesitate to make it and share this delicacy with your loved ones! Enjoy!