Apple Cake with Chocolate Glaze and Walnut

 Ingredients: Base - 2 kg sour apples - 3 eggs - 2 cups* of sugar - 1 teaspoon salt - approximately 2 ½ cups* flour - 2 ½ teaspoons baking soda - grated lemon and orange peel (mix the grated peel with sugar 2-3 days in advance) - 1 teaspoon rum essence - coarsely chopped nuts, to taste (optional) * cup capacity 250 ml Glaze - 6 heaping tablespoons cocoa - 6 heaping tablespoons sugar - 6 heaping tablespoons water - 250 g butter - 1 pinch salt - 1 teaspoon grated lemon/orange peel or to taste Topping - 250 g nuts, coarsely chopped

Cake Base

We start by preparing the apples, carefully peeling them to ensure that the final texture of the cake will be perfect. Using a large grater, grate the apples, allowing their juice to be released. This step is essential, as the apples will add moisture and flavor to the layers. In a large bowl, add the fresh eggs, sugar, salt, and mix well until the composition becomes homogeneous. Continuing, incorporate the sifted flour along with the baking soda, mixing gently to avoid lumps. The citrus aroma is essential, so add the grated lemon and orange zest, along with the rum essence, which will give a special flavor note. Use your hands to mix the ingredients, feeling how the flavors and textures blend together. Finally, add the coarsely chopped walnuts, which will add a pleasant crunch to the cake.

Once the composition is well homogenized, pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with butter and flour, measuring 27 x 37 cm. Spread the dough evenly and ensure it is leveled for even baking. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the tray in for 35-40 minutes. The toothpick test will help you check if the base is baked; if the toothpick comes out clean, the base is ready. Let it cool slightly in the tray so that the flavors stabilize.

Glaze

To prepare the delicious glaze, start by mixing cocoa with sugar in a saucepan. These two ingredients will form the base of the glaze, providing a rich flavor and intense color. Gradually add water, stirring to obtain a homogeneous composition. Separately, melt the butter, which will add a special creaminess to the glaze. Once the butter has melted, pour it over the cocoa and sugar mixture, mixing well. Place the mixture over low heat, continuing to stir constantly. This process will allow the glaze to thicken and become glossy. When the glaze reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and quickly incorporate the salt and the grated lemon and orange zest to intensify the flavor.

Pour the hot glaze over the cooled base, leveling it with a spatula for even distribution. This glaze will be absorbed by the base, successfully replacing a simple syrup and giving it a special taste. Immediately sprinkle the coarsely chopped walnuts on top of the glaze, ensuring they are evenly distributed, then press them gently with your hand to secure them well.

Once the cake is completely assembled, let it cool at room temperature, then place it in a bag and refrigerate until the next day. This will allow the flavors to meld and become more intense. Serve sliced, savoring each piece of this delicious apple and walnut cake, which will surely impress everyone who tastes it.

 Tags:  eggs unt flour sugar fruits apples lemon cocoa oranges nut christmas and new year's recipes cookies vegetarian recipes recipes for kids apple pie