Apple Cake / Scheiterhaufen

Apple cake or Scheiterhaufen is a delicious dessert that combines the sweet aroma of apples with the fluffy texture of bread rolls. It is a traditional recipe often associated with warm family moments, where everyone contributes to the preparation of this comforting dessert. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step so that you can achieve a perfect cake, full of flavor that will delight anyone who tastes it.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- For the base of the cake:
- 200 ml milk
- 3 eggs
- 30 g sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 4-5 white bread rolls (approximately 250 g)
- 50 g raisins
- 50 g butter (for melting and greasing the baking dish)

- For the apple filling:
- 3 large apples (we recommend Granny Smith apples for a pleasant contrast between sweet and tart)
- 40 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- Butter for greasing the baking dish

Step by step: How to prepare the apple cake

1. Preparing the oven:
Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Make sure the temperature is correct for even baking.

2. Milk mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. This mixture will add a creamy base to your cake.

3. Preparing the bread rolls:
Cut the bread rolls into small cubes. They will absorb moisture from the milk mixture, giving the cake a fluffy and delicious texture. You can also use older rolls for a more intense flavor.

4. Soaking the bread rolls:
Add the bread cubes to the milk mixture and let them soak for about 5-10 minutes. Make sure all pieces are well coated.

5. Preparing the apples:
Peel the apples and slice them thinly. Add the sugar and cinnamon, mixing well to coat them evenly. Here, you can experiment with different types of apples according to your preferences.

6. Adding the raisins:
After the bread rolls have soaked, add the raisins and melted butter to the mixture and gently mix to incorporate.

7. Assembling the cake:
Grease a baking dish with butter, then place a layer of bread cubes followed by a layer of apples. Continue alternating layers, finishing with a layer of bread rolls.

8. Baking:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes or until the cake is golden and firm to the touch. You can check if it's baked using a toothpick – if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

9. Cooling and serving:
Let the cake cool slightly before cutting it. It is delicious warm, but also at room temperature. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of sour cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Practical tips

- Variations: You can add nuts or almonds for a crunchy texture. Also, experimenting with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger will enhance the flavors.
- Storage: The cake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven to regain its fluffy texture.
- Complementary drinks: A cup of apple tea or a warm herbal drink will perfectly complement the dessert.

Nutritional benefits

This apple cake contains carbohydrates from the bread and fruits, providing a quick source of energy. Apples bring fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. By adding raisins, the iron and natural sugars content increases, making it a healthier choice for a dessert.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of bread?: Yes, you can experiment with different types of bread, such as whole grain bread or even baguettes.
- When is this cake recommended?: It is perfect for breakfast, a sweet snack, or a dessert on a special occasion, such as a family gathering.
- Can it be frozen?: Yes! The cake can be frozen before or after baking, but make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

Enjoy this apple cake recipe, which is not only simple and quick to make but also brings a touch of nostalgia in every slice. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy every step of the cooking process!

 Ingredients: 200 ml milk, 3 eggs, 50 g butter, 30 g sugar, 4-5 white rolls (about 250 g), 50 g raisins, vanilla. Apple filling: 3 large apples, 40 g sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, butter for greasing the pan.