Apple pie with meringue

Apple and Meringue Cake – A dream dessert, full of delicious flavors and textures

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 12

Introduction

Who doesn’t love a dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the fluffy texture of meringue? The apple and meringue cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace at the end of a long day, a childhood memory, and an ideal treat for any occasion. This easy and quick recipe will surely become one of your favorites, perfect to be served alongside a cup of hot tea or aromatic coffee.

A brief history of the dessert

Apple cakes have a long tradition, being prepared in various cultures throughout history. Apples, versatile and accessible fruits, have always been on hand, and the combination with meringue became popular due to their contrasting textures and perfectly complementary flavors. This recipe is a delicious variant that brings together simple ingredients to create a memorable dessert.

Necessary ingredients

- 2 kg of apples (preferably sweet and aromatic apples)
- 5 eggs
- 200 g sugar (adjustable to taste)
- 180 ml oil (sunflower or olive)
- 125 ml boiling water
- Grated zest of one lemon (for an extra flavor)
- Fresh yeast (about the size of a small walnut) or a packet of dry yeast
- 10 g baking powder (quenched with lemon juice)
- 300 g flour (type 000 for a finer texture)

Steps for preparation

1. Preparing the apples
Start by peeling the apples and grating them on a large grater. Add sugar and cinnamon to taste (about 1-2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon are sufficient). Mix well and place the mixture over low heat in a pan. Sauté the apples for 10-15 minutes or until the juice they release significantly reduces. Once ready, let them cool.

2. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, separate the egg yolks from the whites. Beat the yolks with 150 g of sugar (reserving the rest for the meringue) until frothy and their color changes, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the oil, continuing to mix. Then, pour in the boiling water, being careful to add it gradually while mixing at maximum speed.

3. Adding dry ingredients
To the yolk mixture, add the yeast (if using dry yeast, it’s good to activate it in warm water for a few minutes beforehand), the baking powder quenched with lemon juice, the grated lemon zest, and the flour. Gently mix with a spatula until well combined, being careful not to form lumps. The consistency should be similar to that of a pound cake.

4. Assembling the cake
Pour the obtained dough into a greased and floured baking pan. Add the sautéed apples on top of the dough, trying to distribute them evenly.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 160-170 degrees Celsius. Place the pan in the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes. Check the cake with a toothpick to ensure it is baked.

6. Preparing the meringue
While the cake is baking, you can prepare the meringue. Beat the egg whites with the remaining sugar (about 50 g) until glossy and firm. When the cake is almost done, in the last 5 minutes of baking, spread the meringue evenly on top using a spatula or spoon. Use a fork to create vertical lines on the meringue, which will create an attractive appearance.

7. Cooling and serving
After the cake is baked and the meringue is golden, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool. When completely cool, cut the cake into generous squares and serve it generously, without mercy! It is delicious both warm and cold.

Practical tips

- Choosing apples: Choose sweet and aromatic apples to achieve a pleasant contrast between sweet and tart. Granny Smith apples can add a bit of acidity, while Golden Delicious apples will bring natural sweetness.

- Healthy version: If you want to reduce sugar, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. You can also add chopped nuts or almonds for extra texture and nutrients.

- Share the cake: The apple and meringue cake is perfect for serving at parties or family gatherings. You can accompany it with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream, adding a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra indulgence.

Nutritional benefits

Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants, having a positive impact on heart health and aiding digestion. Additionally, eggs provide high-quality protein, and oil brings essential fatty acids. This cake not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture of the cake may be slightly different.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it.

3. What drinks pair well with this dessert?
A cup of black tea or aromatic coffee pairs perfectly, but a cold lemonade can be a refreshing choice.

In conclusion, the apple and meringue cake is an easy-to-make dessert that will bring joy to your tables, whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to treat yourself. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends to spread this delicious delicacy!

 Ingredients: -2 kg of apples- 5 eggs- 200g sugar- 180ml oil- 125ml boiling water- grated zest of one lemon- yeast the size of a small walnut- 10g baking powder quenched with lemon juice- 300g flour