Upside-down apple cake

Upside-down apple cake is a dessert that combines the sweetness of fruits with a fluffy texture and a fine layer of whipped cream, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. This cake is not only delicious but also relatively simple to prepare, offering a tasty and comforting variation of the classic apple dessert.

The history of upside-down apple cake spans centuries, rooted in diverse culinary traditions where seasonal fruits were often used to create delights that tantalized the senses. Whether it's a family gathering, a party, or simply a Sunday afternoon, this cake will make you feel at home, bringing a touch of nostalgia with every bite.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 800 g grated apples (or 1 kg of fresh apples, preferably tart)
- 50 g butter (for sautéing apples and greasing the pan)
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (for apples)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 50 g raisins
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 5 tablespoons sugar (for the batter)
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- ½ packet baking powder
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Extra: 30 g butter (for greasing the pan)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the apples:
If using fresh apples, peel them and remove the seeds. Grate them using a large grater. If you have frozen apples, make sure to let them thaw completely before use. Tart apples are ideal to balance the sweetness of the cake.

2. Sautéing the apples:
In a large pan, add the 50 g of butter, grated apples, 2-3 tablespoons of sugar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the apples soften slightly and the juice reduces. Add the raisins and rum essence, mixing well. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

3. Preparing the pan:
Grease a 20 cm tart pan with 30 g of butter, ensuring it is well covered on all surfaces.

4. Assembling the apples:
Once the apple mixture has cooled, pour it into the prepared pan and level it evenly.

5. Preparing the batter:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with 5 tablespoons of sugar and the rum essence until the mixture changes color and becomes fluffy. Add the 2 tablespoons of water, flour, and baking powder, mixing with a spatula or whisk. Make sure there are no lumps. Divide the mixture in half: in the first half, add cocoa and mix well.

6. Pouring the batter:
Pour the yellow batter over the apples, followed by the cocoa mixture. Use a fork to create a marbled effect, but do not mix completely.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the cake for 15-20 minutes. Check if it is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

8. Cooling the cake:
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then carefully invert it onto a plate or rack. It is essential to let it cool completely before adding the whipped cream.

9. Preparing the whipped cream:
In a cold bowl, whip the heavy cream until it thickens. Add the powdered sugar and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.

10. Decorating:
Spread the whipped cream over the cooled upside-down cake. You can decorate with apple slices, nuts, or grated chocolate, as desired.

11. Serving:
Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, adding a touch of flavor to any meal.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can replace the rum essence with vanilla essence.
- You can also experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or plums, to vary the recipe.
- The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best when freshly made.

Nutrition:
A serving of upside-down apple cake provides about 250 calories, making it a decent choice in desserts due to the fruit and heavy cream content. Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.
- Is whipped cream necessary?
Although the cake is delicious without whipped cream, it adds a creamy layer that perfectly complements the apples.

This upside-down apple cake is not just a dessert but an experience that brings joy and comfort. Dare to try it and share your cooking moments with loved ones! Enjoy!