Upside-down apple cake

Upside Down Apple Cake: A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Imagine a cake that transforms juicy apples into a decadent dessert, where golden caramel intertwines with delicate flavors of cinnamon and lemon. This upside-down apple cake recipe is not only an excellent choice to end a meal but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of warmth to cooler days.

A bit of history: Upside-down cakes have a long-standing tradition in gastronomy, often appreciated for their moist texture and the way fruits caramelize, creating a flavor combination that delights the senses. Around the world, these cakes are customized based on available ingredients and local preferences.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg apples (we recommend the Golden variety for its natural sweetness)
- 5 fresh eggs
- 5 tablespoons of sugar (plus 8 tablespoons for caramel)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- Zest of one lemon
- 50 g butter
- Cinnamon (to taste)

Step 1: Preparing the Caramel

Start by caramelizing the 8 tablespoons of sugar. In a saucepan, add the sugar and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar melts and turns golden. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt caramel will give a bitter taste to the cake. Once the caramel has a uniform color, quickly pour it into a baking dish, covering the bottom evenly. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the Apples

Peel the apples and cut them into quarters. Carefully arrange them over the cooled caramel. Sprinkle one tablespoon of sugar over the apples, followed by cinnamon and pieces of butter. These ingredients will provide a delicious taste and inviting aroma. Now, place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes, until the apples become slightly soft.

Step 3: Preparing the Batter

In a large bowl, beat the 5 egg whites until you achieve a firm foam. Then, gradually add the 5 tablespoons of sugar and continue beating until the sugar is completely dissolved. It is essential for the foam to be well beaten to achieve a fluffy batter. After the sugar has melted, add the egg yolks and lemon zest, gently folding with a spatula.

Step 4: Combining Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Sifting the flour will help avoid lumps. Gradually add this flour mixture to the egg composition, mixing with a spatula, with upward motions to avoid losing air from the egg whites.

Step 5: Baking the Cake

After the apples have been in the oven for 10 minutes, remove the dish and carefully pour the batter over the apples. Make sure to cover the fruits evenly. Bake the cake for 35 minutes, or until it becomes golden and a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. If you wish, you can do the toothpick test to check if it’s done.

Step 6: Inverting and Serving

After baking, let the cake cool slightly, then carefully invert it onto a serving platter. The caramel will melt and flow over the apples, creating a delicious sauce. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. You can decorate it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a pleasant contrast between warm and cold.

Serving Suggestions and Combinations

This upside-down apple cake pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Additionally, for an even more decadent dessert, try serving it with a caramel or chocolate sauce. A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside will turn each slice into a true indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of fruits?
Of course! You can experiment with peaches, plums, or pears, adjusting the quantities based on the chosen fruits.

2. What is the best way to store the cake?
The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to maintain its texture.

3. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the batter or choose tarter apples, such as green apples, for a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is an excellent source of vitamins from apples, and the eggs provide essential proteins. Whole wheat flour can be used as an alternative for a higher fiber intake. The calories per serving are around 250 kcal, but can vary based on the chosen ingredients.

Tips for a Perfect Result

- Ensure the eggs are at room temperature before beating; this will help achieve a more stable foam.
- Do not open the oven in the first 20 minutes of baking to avoid lowering the temperature.
- Experiment with flavors: a splash of vanilla or nutmeg can add an extra dimension to the cake.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start your culinary adventure! This upside-down apple cake will surely become a favorite recipe in your home, bringing joy and refinement to every meal. Enjoy!