Semolina Apple Cake

Apple semolina cake is a simple dessert, yet full of flavors and delightful textures, perfect for bringing a touch of warmth to any day. This recipe is not just an excellent way to utilize fresh apples, but also an opportunity to be transported back to childhood memories, when the smell of baked apples and cinnamon filled the house.

Before we start, let’s get familiar with the basic ingredients and discuss the benefits of each. The apple semolina cake is a recipe that does not require complicated techniques, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks.

Ingredients
- 1.5 kg of apples (preferably tart apples, such as green or some red varieties)
- 200-250 g of butter (or margarine for a vegan version)
- 1 cup of semolina
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 100-150 g of crushed walnuts (or more, to taste)
- Cinnamon (to taste)

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 45-50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Number of servings: 12 servings

Step by step for a perfect dessert

1. Preparing the apples: Start by washing the apples well. Use a large grater to grate them. This technique will allow the apples to blend perfectly into the mixture, providing moisture and sweetness. Mix the grated apples with a little cinnamon, giving them a warm and comforting aroma. There is no need to cook them; the fresh taste is essential.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of semolina, 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, and the baking powder. Make sure to mix well to avoid lumps. You can use a spatula or a whisk to achieve a uniform texture.

3. Dividing the ingredients: It is important to divide the mixture into equal parts. Dividing is essential to achieve balanced layers. The mixture of semolina, flour, and sugar will be divided into two parts, and the apples will also be divided into two.

4. Preparing the baking pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Use a baking pan measuring 28x28 cm, greased well with 1/3 of the cubed butter. This will contribute to a nice golden appearance of the cake.

5. Assembling the cake:
- Pour the first half of the semolina and flour mixture into the pan (about a heaping cup or a cup and 2-3 tablespoons).
- Add half of the grated apples, distributing them evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining semolina mixture on top of the apples, followed by 1/3 of the remaining butter.
- Add the rest of the apples and finish with the remaining butter cubes.

6. Finalizing and baking: Sprinkle crushed walnuts on top (some finely ground and others in small pieces) for a crunchy texture. Gently press the walnuts into the batter to integrate, avoiding excessive browning. Bake the cake for 45-50 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cooling and serving: After the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, remove it to a cooling rack to cool completely. Cut it into portions and serve it plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.

Nutritional benefits
This dessert is rich in fiber due to the apples, which contribute to healthy digestion. Semolina is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing lasting energy, while walnuts add healthy fats and protein. This cake is an excellent choice for indulging the family without feeling guilty.

Possible variations
- You can experiment with different types of nuts or seeds, such as almonds or hazelnuts.
- Add raisins or other dried fruits to enhance the flavor.
- Instead of regular sugar, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to make the dessert healthier.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can replace the apples with pears or peaches, but the baking time may vary.
- Can the cake be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to portion it beforehand.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar or use tarter apples.

The apple semolina cake is not just a dessert; it is a story, a memory, a way to enjoy the simple moments of life. Prepare this recipe with love and enjoy every bite!