Tender Apple Cake

Tender Apple Cake: A Traditional Delight

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

Introduction

Who can resist the enticing aroma of a freshly baked apple cake with a hint of cinnamon? This tender apple cake is a simple yet flavorful dessert, perfect for serving at a family meal or as a sweet treat after a long day. It’s a recipe that evokes childhood memories and moments spent with loved ones, where every bite feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 6 eggs
- 200 g sugar
- 250 ml oil
- 350 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla essence

For the filling:
- 1 kg apples (about 7 medium apples)
- 150 g sugar (or less, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 4+3 tablespoons breadcrumbs

A Bit of History

Apple cakes have a long history, being prepared in various forms over time. Apples, a symbol of health and prosperity, have been used in cooking for millennia. This tender apple cake combines the light and airy texture of the base with the sweet and fragrant apple filling, creating a perfect contrast that delights the senses.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the apples
Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any impurities. Peel and grate them. This step will allow the flavors to release during cooking.

2. Cooking the apples
Place the grated apples in a pot over medium heat, adding the sugar. Stir occasionally until the juice from the apples reduces and they become soft (about 10-15 minutes). It’s important not to cook them too much, as you want the apples to retain some of their texture.

3. Thickening the apples
Once the juice from the apples has reduced and they have softened, remove the pot from the heat and add 4 tablespoons of breadcrumbs. This ingredient will help absorb the juice and provide a pleasant texture to the filling. Let it cool.

4. Preparing the base
In a large bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. This will be the secret to achieving a fluffy and well-risen base.

5. Beating the eggs
In another bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until completely dissolved and you achieve a smooth cream. Here, you can use an electric mixer for quick results. Gradually add the oil while continuing to mix. The vanilla essence will add a touch of refinement, so don’t skip it!

6. Combining the ingredients
Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg cream using a spatula. You will obtain a denser dough with a pleasant consistency.

7. Assembling the cake
Line a baking tray of about 20 x 30 cm with parchment paper. Pour half of the base mixture into the tray and spread it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs over this layer. Then, carefully add the apple filling, without pressing it too much into the dough. Pour the remaining dough over the apples and level it out.

8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat) and bake the cake for about 40 minutes, or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test. Once removed from the oven, let the cake cool in the tray for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

Serving and Suggestions

The tender apple cake can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which will perfectly complement the sweetness of the apples. Additionally, a dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a touch of elegance. If you want to impress, you can drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Of course! This recipe is versatile, so you can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or even berries.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use tarter apples.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
Yes! The cake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

Nutritional Benefits

This apple cake, besides its deliciousness, also offers some nutritional benefits. Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a healthy ingredient. Additionally, the dough contains eggs, which are a good source of protein.

Possible Variations

To give the cake a twist, you can add chopped nuts or almonds to the filling, giving it a crunchy texture. Also, a splash of lemon juice on the apples before cooking will enhance the flavors and add a pleasant taste.

Conclusion

I invite you to experiment with this tender apple cake recipe, enjoy every step of its preparation, and bring a touch of joy into your life and those of your loved ones. Every bite will be a sweet memory, and the cake will surely become a favorite in your home! This is not just a cake, but a story you share with those who matter. Enjoy your meal!