Apple and Jam Cake

 Ingredients: 2 egg yolks 170 g sugar (I only used 100) 50 g creamy almost melted butter 150 ml milk 1/2 packet of baking powder (1 whole packet has 16 g so I added approximately 8 g) 200 g flour 2-3 apples depending on their size and the surface area of the tray (I used 2 apples) 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar (or as needed) a few tablespoons of jam (I will use a homemade greengage jam but you can use any kind of jam: peaches, apricots, quince jelly, oranges)

To prepare a delicious apple cake that will delight the senses and bring a festive air to any moment of the day, follow these detailed steps. We start by preparing the necessary ingredients: 4 egg yolks, 150 g of sugar, 100 g of soft butter, 200 ml of milk, 250 g of flour, 1 packet of baking powder, 3-4 apples, and optionally, a little lemon juice.

The first step is to cream the egg yolks with the sugar and butter in a large bowl, using a mixer or spatula, until you achieve a cream-like composition, of an intense yellow color. It should become fluffy and increase in volume. Then gradually add the milk, continuously mixing to integrate the liquid evenly into the composition. In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder, then start incorporating the flour mixture into the egg cream, mixing carefully to avoid lumps. If you prefer, you can do this process manually, but the mixer can help you achieve a finer texture.

Once the composition is homogenized, prepare the baking tray. Line it with baking paper moistened under running water, then wrung out well. This method will allow you to spread the dough evenly in the tray, without wrinkles, and without needing to cut the paper to fit the tray. Pour the dough into the tray and level it gently with a spatula.

Now, it's time to prepare the apples. Wash them well, cut them into quarters, and remove the seeds. If you wish, you can peel the apples, but I recommend leaving the skin on for added flavor and texture. To prevent oxidation, sprinkle the apple slices with a little lemon juice, especially if you have peeled them. Arrange the apple slices over the dough in a scale pattern, arranging them nicely for an appealing look.

Sprinkle a tablespoon of granulated sugar over the apples, being careful not to create too thick a layer to allow for caramelization. I used two tablespoons, but it's important to find the right balance. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C (or medium heat if you don't have a thermometer) for about 40 minutes, but check from time to time, as baking time may vary depending on the oven. Do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

After you take the cake out of the oven, prepare a syrup from fruit jam and a little water, which you will heat in a small pot. Use a brush to glaze the cake with this aromatic syrup, which will add a layer of shine and a delicious taste. Let the cake cool completely before cutting it into portions. Enjoy each piece with a cup of tea or coffee, and savor this simple yet extremely tasty delicacy!

 Tags:  milk unt flour sugar fruits apples oranges cookies vegetarian recipes apple pie