Fan-shaped apple cake

Fan-Shaped Apple Sweet Bread - A Fragrant Delight

If you're looking for a dessert that combines tradition with a divine taste, the fan-shaped apple sweet bread is the perfect choice. This recipe not only brings a touch of nostalgia in every bite but is also an excellent way to savor the flavors of autumn. Let’s prepare for a culinary adventure full of flavor and warmth!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 450 g flour (preferably type 000 for a fine texture)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (about 25 g)
- 180 ml milk (slightly warmed)
- 90 g sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- 80 g butter (melted and warm)
- 1 egg (medium size)
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla essence (1-2 drops)

For the filling:
- 1 kg apples (choose sweet apples like Golden or Elstar)
- Sugar to taste (may vary depending on the acidity of the apples)
- 1-2 tablespoons of cinnamon (for a more pronounced flavor)

A Brief History

Sweet bread is a symbol of hospitality and culinary traditions, often associated with celebrations and family moments. The apple variant is a modern reinterpretation that brings a fresh and healthy touch. Apples not only enrich the flavor but also add moisture, making the sweet bread soft and fluffy.

Step by Step - Preparing the Sweet Bread

1. Activating the yeast:
Start by dissolving the yeast cube in a teaspoon of sugar. Mix well and set aside for 10 minutes until the yeast becomes a frothy and lively paste. This is the key to a fluffy dough.

2. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the flour and make a well in the center. Pour the activated yeast paste into the center of the flour. Meanwhile, warming the milk with sugar and vanilla essence will help activate the flavors. Add the warm milk, beaten egg with a pinch of salt, and melted butter. Use a spatula to mix the ingredients until you form a sticky dough.

3. Kneading:
On a lightly floured work surface, knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it – a dough that is too dry will not keep the sweet bread fluffy.

4. Rising:
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

Preparing the Filling

5. The apples:
Peel the apples and grate them on a large grater. Place them in a saucepan over medium heat along with the sugar and cinnamon. Cook until the juice evaporates completely and the mixture becomes an aromatic apple composition. Let the filling cool to room temperature.

Assembling the Sweet Bread

6. Shaping the sweet bread:
After the dough has risen, roll it out on a work surface into a rectangle (about 30x40 cm). Evenly distribute the apple filling over the surface of the dough.

7. Cutting and arranging:
Cut the dough into 3 vertical strips. Stack the strips on top of each other and, with a sharp knife, cut into 6 square portions. Place the obtained stacks in a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.

8. Second rising:
Let the sweet bread rise again for 20-30 minutes, covered with a towel. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy texture.

Baking

9. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the sweet bread for about 35 minutes or until it turns golden and brown. A useful trick is to check if it is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the sweet bread is ready.

10. Cooling and serving:
Let the sweet bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve it warm or at room temperature, sprinkled with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the apples: Opt for sweet but slightly tart apples to balance the sweetness of the sugar.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the apple filling for extra texture.
- Serving: This sweet bread pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic tea or coffee. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

The apple sweet bread is not only delicious but also nutritious. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestive health. The butter adds healthy fats, while the egg provides essential proteins. It is a healthier choice compared to other desserts when consumed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can try pears, peaches, or even plums. Just make sure to adjust the amount of sugar according to the sweetness of the chosen fruits.

2. How can I store the sweet bread?
The sweet bread stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months.

3. What can I do with leftover sweet bread?
You can use leftovers to make sweet bread pudding or to create a sweet toast with butter and jam.

Now that you have all the details, it's time to get to work! Enjoy every step of making this fan-shaped apple sweet bread and don’t forget to share the result with your loved ones. Bon appétit!