Apple and cinnamon cake

Apple and cinnamon cake – an explosion of flavors and a sweetness that will fill your home with inviting aromas. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for moments when you want to impress your loved ones or treat yourself to a comforting dessert. The combination of juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and a fluffy texture makes this cake a true family favorite. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

- 2 large eggs
- 130 g soft butter, at room temperature
- 120 g natural yogurt
- 170 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 200-220 g flour (for a fluffier texture, use type 550 flour)
- 2 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of ground anise
- Zest of one orange
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

The story behind the recipe

The apple and cinnamon cake has deep roots in culinary culture, being a beloved dessert in many corners of the world. Apples, a versatile ingredient, have been cultivated for thousands of years and have become symbols of abundance and health. Cinnamon, on the other hand, is a spice with a rich history, used not only for its flavors but also for its antioxidant properties. Together, these ingredients create a cake that will remind you of moments spent in your grandmother's kitchen.

Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the apples
- Start by washing the apples well under a stream of cold water. Peel them with a sharp knife or a peeler, then cut them into small cubes. This is the perfect time to add extra flavors; mix the apple cubes with cinnamon and anise, then refrigerate them to intensify the flavors.

2. Preparing the batter
- In a large bowl, mix the soft butter with the sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until you achieve a fluffy, light-colored cream. This step is essential to ensure an airy texture for the cake.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the yogurt and the orange zest, which will add a touch of freshness and flavor.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and vanilla sugar. Add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, sifting them in to prevent lumps. Mix with a silicone spatula or a wooden spoon until the ingredients are well integrated.

3. Assembling the cake
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (375°F). While the oven is heating, grease a tart pan with butter and line it with parchment paper. This step will prevent the cake from sticking.
- Pour the batter into the pan and level it evenly with a spatula.
- Remove the apples from the fridge and place them on top of the batter, gently pressing each piece to incorporate it into the dough.

4. Baking
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and let the cake bake for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and variations

The cake can be served plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar on top, or alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A blend of flavors can be achieved by adding chopped nuts or raisins to the apple mixture for extra texture and flavor.

Useful tips

- For perfect apples: Choose apples that are firm and have a pleasant acidity to balance the sweetness of the batter.
- Baking techniques: If you want a crispier crust, you can bake the cake at a slightly higher temperature for the last 5-10 minutes.
- Vegan alternative: You can replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds (1 tablespoon of flaxseeds + 3 tablespoons of water) and the butter with coconut oil.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of this cake contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while yogurt adds a probiotic boost for gut health. This cake is not just a treat but also a healthier choice compared to many other desserts!

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use a different type of yogurt? Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or flavored yogurt to add a different taste to the cake.
2. What other fruits can I use? You can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or even berries, depending on your preferences.
3. How can I store the cake? The cake keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a week. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get to work! The apple and cinnamon cake awaits you to discover its flavor and delight your taste buds. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 2 eggs, 130 g butter, 120 g natural yogurt, 170 g sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 200-220 g flour, 2 medium apples, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 pinch ground star anise, grated orange peel, 1 packet vanilla sugar.