Apple pie

Upside-down apple cake - a warm and comforting dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8

Introduction

Upside-down apple cake is a classic dessert often associated with cherished memories and moments of togetherness. This simple recipe transforms apples, a common ingredient, into a sweet and fragrant delicacy, perfect for any occasion. Whether served alongside a scoop of ice cream or with a vanilla sauce, this upside-down apple cake will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Let’s discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Ingredients needed

- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 6 medium apples
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (for the apples)
- 1 teaspoon of butter
- Raisins (about 50g)
- Chopped walnuts (about 50g)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

Preparing the ingredients

Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Choose fresh, firm apples that will add a delicious flavor to the cake. Granny Smith or Golden Delicious apples are excellent options due to their perfect balance of sweet and tart.

Step 1: Preparing the apples

Start by washing the apples well under cold running water. Cut each apple in half and remove the seeds. Then, slice the apples into thin slices, about 0.5 cm thick. This thickness will allow the apples to cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.

Step 2: Arranging the apples in the pan

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Take a baking dish and grease it with a teaspoon of butter, ensuring it is evenly coated. Sprinkle 4 tablespoons of sugar on the bottom of the dish, then arrange the apple slices in a pleasing pattern. Don’t forget to sprinkle raisins and chopped walnuts here and there for added texture and flavor. Finish with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon to add a warm and spiced note.

Step 3: Baking the apples

Place the dish in the preheated oven and let the apples bake for 15 minutes. You will notice how the sugar begins to melt and forms a delicious syrup around the apples. When the apples have taken on a brown color, remove the dish from the oven and pour a cup of water over the apples, then return the dish to the oven for another 10 minutes. The water will help create a flavorful syrup that will make the dessert even tastier.

Step 4: Preparing the batter

Meanwhile, separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Then, gradually add 4 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. In another bowl, cream the yolks with 2 tablespoons of oil, then add the vanilla sugar and grated lemon zest. Mix well.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients

Start adding the meringue to the yolk mixture, gently folding with a spatula to keep the air in the meringue. Then, fold in the sifted flour and mix gently until the ingredients are fully combined.

Step 6: Assembling the cake

Once the apples are baked and tender, pour the egg mixture over the apples, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Leave everything in the oven for another 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture is well baked and lightly browned.

Step 7: Serving

Once the upside-down cake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving platter. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a dollop of cream, vanilla ice cream, or a caramel sauce. It is a versatile dessert that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.

Helpful tips

- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a splash of rum or almond extract to the egg mixture.
- Instead of walnuts, you can use hazelnuts or almonds, depending on your preferences.
- The upside-down apple cake can be made in advance and keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

Nutritional benefits

Apples are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and fiber, making them a healthy ingredient. Eggs provide protein and healthy fats, while nuts offer essential fatty acids. This recipe is a good choice for a dessert that combines taste pleasure with nutritional benefits.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned apples?
It is not recommended, as canned apples may be too soft and will not provide the same crunchy texture.

2. Is it possible to replace sugar with a sweetener?
Yes, you can use a natural sweetener, but make sure to follow the usage instructions, as some sweeteners have different sweetening powers.

3. Can I add other fruits?
Of course! You can experiment with pears or peaches for a delicious and aromatic variation.

Conclusion

Upside-down apple cake is a recipe that combines simplicity with flavor, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. With each bite, you will feel the warmth and love that went into making this dessert. Remember, cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to create memories. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 4 eggs, 4 tablespoons sugar, 4 tablespoons flour, 2 tablespoons oil, 2 packets vanilla sugar, grated zest of one lemon, 6 medium-sized apples, 4 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon butter, chopped walnuts, cinnamon.