Vegan apple pie

Apple Cake – A Delicious and Healthy Treat

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for apple cake, perfect for satisfying any sweet cravings. This cake is not only an excellent choice for fasting days but also a quick and simple option for any occasion. With a delicious apple filling and a tender crust, it’s a dessert that impresses with its simplicity and flavor.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Apple cakes have been made in various forms throughout history, cherished for their versatility and accessibility. Apples are nutrient-rich fruits, and their combination with a flaky crust offers a wonderful contrast of textures. This specific recipe stands out by using sparkling water, which gives the dough a slight effervescence, resulting in a fluffy and airy cake.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 250 ml sparkling water
- 150 ml oil (preferably sunflower or canola oil)
- 150 g sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice (to activate the baking soda)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 460 g flour (type 000 or 650)
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the filling:
- 2 kg apples (preferably sweet-tart varieties)
- 150 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 50-60 minutes
- Servings: 12

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Filling
Start with the filling, as it will need time to cool. Peel the apples and grate them using a large grater. In a pot, combine the grated apples with sugar and cinnamon. Mix well and cook over medium heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will help the apples soften and release their flavorful juices. Once the apples are soft and juicy, remove the pot from the heat and let the filling cool.

2. Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, add the sparkling water, oil, sugar, baking powder, and the baking soda activated with vinegar. Then, add the lemon zest and vanilla extract. Mix all the ingredients well, then gradually add the flour and salt. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. It’s important not to over-knead the dough, as it should remain tender.

3. Chilling the Dough
Once the dough is ready, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture, helping the dough firm up a bit.

4. Assembling the Cake
After the dough has chilled, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out the first part of the dough into a thin sheet, large enough to cover a baking tray. Place the sheet in a tray lined with parchment paper.

Now, evenly spread the apple filling over the dough sheet. Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it on top, making sure to poke holes here and there to allow steam to escape during baking. This step is crucial to prevent the dough from puffing up.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the tray in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cake turns golden and beautifully browned. It's important to check occasionally, as each oven bakes differently.

Serving Suggestions
Once the cake has cooled, cut it into squares or slices and sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a special touch. This cake is excellent for serving with coffee or tea, but it can also be enjoyed as a simple dessert.

For an even more special treat, you can serve the cake with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce. Additionally, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a delicious creaminess that complements the apple flavor.

Variations and Practical Tips
- Apple Variations: You can experiment with different types of apples, such as Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Gala for a sweeter taste.
- Add Nuts or Raisins: A handful of chopped nuts or raisins in the apple filling adds extra texture and flavor.
- Flavoring: Try adding a bit of nutmeg or ginger to the apple filling for a unique twist.

Nutritional Benefits
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Eating apples is associated with a variety of health benefits, including improved digestive health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, this cake is dairy-free, making it a perfect option for vegans and those looking for a healthier diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different variation.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, the recipe is vegan as it contains no animal products.

In conclusion, this apple cake is a simple yet delightful dessert that can bring smiles to your loved ones' faces. Give it a try today and treat your family to a homemade delight! Enjoy!