Tender apple pie

Tender Apple Cake: A Delicacy That Will Delight Your Senses

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 12

The tender apple cake is a dessert that brings together tradition and flavor in a perfect combination. This recipe is ideal for celebrating a special moment or simply to indulge yourself after a long day. With a flaky crust and a delicious filling of aromatic apples, this cake will captivate you from the first bite.

A Bit of History
Apple cakes have a long history, being a symbol of warmth and comfort. Apples, a versatile ingredient available year-round, have been used in cooking for centuries, bringing a sweet-tart flavor that perfectly complements the sweet notes of the crust. This traditional recipe can easily be adapted according to personal preferences, making it a great base for experimenting with various ingredients.

Ingredients
For the crust:
- 3 eggs
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 1 packet baking powder mixed with lemon juice
- 200 g butter (partially melted)
- 4 cups flour

For the filling:
- 1 kg apples (preferably tart varieties, such as green apples)
- Sugar to taste
- 50 g butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by adding the flour to the bread machine bowl. Add the partially melted butter and mix gently. When the mixture begins to crumble, add the powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, the baking powder mixed with lemon juice, and the eggs one by one. This process will create an elastic and non-sticky dough.

Helpful Tip: Make sure the butter is not completely melted, but just soft, to maintain the flaky texture of the dough. If you don't have a bread machine, you can do this step by hand, mixing the ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Chilling the Dough
Once the dough is formed, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour. This step is essential for achieving a flaky texture, as chilling helps solidify the butter in the mixture.

3. Preparing the Apple Filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Peel the apples and grate them coarsely. In a skillet, add the grated apples, sugar (depending on how sweet the apples are), and butter. Sauté the mixture over medium heat, adding the cinnamon. Cook until the apples become soft, then let them cool.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the filling.

4. Assembling the Cake
After the dough has chilled, divide it into 3 equal parts. Use a rolling pin to roll out each portion of dough on a floured work surface. Place the first layer in a greased baking dish and evenly cover it with the apple filling. Repeat the process for the remaining layers, alternating between the dough layers and filling.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cake on low heat until it turns golden on top, about 45 minutes.

Personal Note: For a delicious touch, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top of the cake as soon as you take it out of the oven, adding a dash of elegance.

6. Cooling and Serving
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can cut the cake into portions and serve it warm or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! You can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries to create a cake with a different flavor.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. You can freeze it for a longer period by cutting it into portions.

3. Can I add nuts or almonds?
Yes, adding chopped nuts or almonds to the apple filling will add a crunchy texture and a delicious flavor.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of this cake contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sugar and butter used. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, contributing to a healthy diet. This dessert can be enjoyed in moderation, being a better choice than many other processed desserts.

Complementary Recipes and Beverages
To complement this tender apple cake, I recommend serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with warm caramel sauce. Additionally, a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee will provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

This tender apple cake is not just a recipe but an enriching cooking experience. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, it is a dessert that will bring smiles and beautiful memories. So, don your chef's attire and let the enticing aromas of this delightful recipe carry you away!