Apple pie

Apple and Aroma Cake – A Nostalgic Delight

This apple cake is a true indulgence, filled with flavors and textures that remind us of sunny days spent in the kitchen with loved ones. Inspired by a popular recipe, this cake offers both a delicious taste and an enticing appearance. It's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering or a party with friends. Let's embark on making this quick and simple dessert that is sure to bring smiles to the faces of those dear to us.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 250 g butter (or 100 g butter and 100 g lard)
- 120 g powdered sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 2 kg sweet-tart apples
- 200 g sugar (depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- Cinnamon to taste (I used a generous pinch)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 60-80 g chopped walnuts or hazelnuts (optional)

For brushing on top:
- 1 egg yolk

Preparing the Dough

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients on a clean work surface. Make sure the butter is at room temperature so it mixes easily with the flour.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and cubed butter. Use a mixer or spatula to blend them until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. It’s important not to overmix to avoid a tough dough.

3. Adding the other ingredients: Add the powdered sugar, vanilla sugar, eggs, egg yolks, sour cream, lemon zest, and salt. Continue mixing, but don’t overdo it. Once the ingredients are well integrated, form the dough into a ball.

4. Chilling the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour. This step is essential for achieving a tender and workable dough.

Preparing the Filling

5. Washing and preparing the apples: Wash the apples well and dry them with a clean towel. You can choose to grate them with the skin on, as it contains many vitamins. If you prefer, you can peel them, but I recommend using them as is for added flavor.

6. Chopping the nuts: If using walnuts or hazelnuts, lightly toast them in a dry pan to enhance their flavor. Then, chop them finely or grind them.

7. Mixing the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the grated apples, sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest, and chopped nuts. Make sure the apples are well-drained of the juice released during grating.

Assembling the Cake

8. Dividing the dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal parts. One part will be used for the base of the cake, and the other for the top.

9. Rolling out the dough: On a surface sprinkled with a little flour, roll out the first part of the dough into a circle large enough to cover the bottom of a baking pan. Place the dough in the pre-greased pan and prick it with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming.

10. Adding the filling: Pour the apple mixture over the dough in the pan, spreading it evenly.

11. The cake lid: Roll out the second part of the dough just like the first and place it on top of the filling. You can make small cuts in the dough to allow steam to escape during baking.

12. Brushing with egg yolk: Beat an egg yolk and brush it evenly over the cake to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

Baking the Cake

13. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). It’s important for the temperature to be correct to achieve an evenly baked cake.

14. Baking: Place the pan in the oven and let it bake for about 50 minutes. Every oven is different, so keep an eye out for a golden color on the surface of the cake. You can do the toothpick test to check if it’s baked through.

15. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. After it has cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look and sweet taste.

Serving Suggestions

This apple cake is delicious served warm, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream. A cup of fragrant coffee perfectly complements this dessert, turning it into a true culinary experience.

Practical Tips

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of apples or add other fruits, such as pears or plums, for a diversified filling.
- Additional flavors: If you want to enhance the flavor of the cake, you can add a few drops of vanilla extract or a splash of rum to the filling.
- Storage: The cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. You can gently reheat it in the oven to restore its crunchy texture.

Nutritional Benefits

Apples are an excellent source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Nuts add healthy fats and protein, while butter and sour cream provide a calcium boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of sweeteners? Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar, but adjust the quantity according to the desired sweetness.
- Can the cake be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the cake before baking. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
- How can I make the cake lower in calories? You can use reduced-fat butter or substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour.

Feel free to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the magic of autumn flavors in the comfort of your home! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For the filling: 2 kg of sweet and sour apples, about 200 g of sugar (depending on the variety of apples), cinnamon to taste - I used a good pinch, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, 60-80 g of ground walnuts or hazelnuts. For the dough: 1/2 kg of white flour, 1 package of butter - 250 grams, 120 g of powdered sugar, 2 packets of vanilla sugar, 2 eggs, 2 egg yolks, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, a pinch of salt. For brushing on top: 1 egg yolk.

 Tags:  apple pie