Upside Down Apple Tart

Upside-down apple tart with sour cherry jam

This upside-down apple tart recipe is a true culinary treasure that I discovered in my childhood when my mother lovingly prepared it. The memories of the scent of baked apples and sour cherry jam fill my heart with joy. This cake is, in fact, a modern reinterpretation of the traditional recipe, where I chose to use sliced apples to simplify the preparation. Get ready to indulge in a fluffy and aromatic cake, perfect for family gatherings or a get-together with friends!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg apples (preferably tart for a flavor contrast)
- 200 g sugar (can be adjusted to taste)
- 30 g butter (ensures a rich flavor)
- 100 g nuts (optional, but highly recommended)
- 200 g sour cherries from jam (or drained compote)
- 100 g raisins (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm and comforting aroma)
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons sugar (for the sponge cake)
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (adds a sweet and fragrant note)

Recipe history:
The upside-down apple tart has a rich and varied history, being a beloved dessert in many cultures. Over time, it has been reinvented and adapted, maintaining its essence of being an accessible and delicious cake. It is the perfect dessert to bring family and friends together, often prepared for special occasions or simply to celebrate the beautiful moments of everyday life.

Useful tips:
1. Choosing the apples: Use tart apples, such as Granny Smith or other varieties that hold up well when baked. They will add a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cherries.
2. Baking dish: Make sure to use a 24 cm diameter pan for a taller and fluffier base. If you use a larger pan, the base will be thinner and less airy.
3. Oven temperature: Preheat the oven to 180°C so that the cake bakes evenly. Every oven is different, so check the cake with a skewer!
4. Serving: This tart is delicious served plain, but you can accompany it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to enhance the tasting experience.

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the apples
1. Wash the apples well, peel them, and slice them thinly. This method will allow the apples to bake evenly and integrate perfectly into the cake mixture.
2. In a pot, pour 200 g of sugar and level it evenly on the bottom. Place the apple slices on top, followed by the sour cherries from the jam, chopped nuts, raisins, cubed butter, and cinnamon (if you wish to use it).
3. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes to allow the apples to release their juice and soften slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the sponge cake
1. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add 5 tablespoons of sugar, continuously mixing until you obtain a firm meringue.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the vanilla sugar until they become a creamy mixture. Then, add the egg white mixture, gently folding from the bottom up to avoid losing air.
3. Sift the flour and gently incorporate it into the mixture using a spatula or whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Assembling and baking
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pot with the apples on the stove and let it simmer for 10 minutes, then pour the sponge cake mixture evenly over the warm apples.
2. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, until the base is golden and passes the toothpick test.
3. Once baked, let the cake cool slightly, then loosen the edges from the dish and invert it onto a plate.

Frequently asked questions:
1. What other fruits can I use instead of apples? You can experiment with pears, peaches, or plums, all bringing a different flavor to the cake.
2. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar? Yes, brown sugar will add a caramel note and a deeper flavor.
3. How can I keep the tart fresh? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. It can also be frozen for later enjoyment.

Interesting variations:
- Try adding cocoa: Add 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the sponge cake mixture for a chocolaty flavor.
- Enrich with flavors: A teaspoon of almond or rum extract in the sponge cake mixture can completely transform the cake's aroma.

This upside-down apple and sour cherry tart is a dessert that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth in every slice. You can enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect indulgent moment. So gather the ingredients and let yourself be inspired by cherished memories and pleasant aromas!

 Ingredients: 1.5 kg apples 200 g sugar 30 g butter a few chopped nuts sour cherries from jam raisins (optional) 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 5 eggs 5 tablespoons of sugar 6 tablespoons flour vanilla sugar

 Tags:  upside-down apple tart