Apple cake with walnut meringue

The apple and walnut meringue cake is a delicacy that combines the fluffy texture of the base with the sweetness of the apples and the crunchiness of the meringue. This recipe will not only provide you with an extraordinary culinary experience but will also bring a touch of childhood nostalgia, reminding you of family moments spent cooking together. Get ready for a quick and simple dessert, perfect for any occasion!

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 25 minutes
- Baking time: 30-40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

*For the base:*
- 6 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons oil
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 6 tablespoons cake flour (or 1 teaspoon baking powder added to the flour)

*For the filling:*
- 6 large Granny Smith apples (or other tart apples for a balanced taste)
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- 100g raisins
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

*For the meringue:*
- 6 egg whites
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons finely ground walnuts

History of the apple and walnut meringue cake:
This recipe has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a beloved dessert in many cultures. Apples, as a staple ingredient, symbolize health and well-being, while the meringue adds a touch of elegance and refinement. The apple and meringue cake is often associated with autumn celebrations when apples are in full season, but it can be enjoyed year-round.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the base:
- Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. It is essential to have the oven well-heated to achieve a perfect crust on the base.
- In a large bowl, add the egg yolks and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes a light-colored, airy, and creamy foam. This step is crucial as it will determine the light texture of the base.
- Continue mixing and gradually add the oil, mixing well to homogenize the ingredients.
- Then incorporate the flour, gently mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed until no lumps remain. If you are using flour without baking powder, now is the time to add the baking powder.
- Grease a rectangular baking dish with a little oil and pour in the base mixture. Place the dish in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the base starts to develop a golden crust. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.

2. Preparing the filling:
- While the base is baking, grate the apples using a large grater. Place them in a strainer to drain excess juice. Sprinkling with lemon juice will not only prevent the apples from oxidizing but will also add a note of freshness.
- Add the raisins and ground cinnamon to the grated apples. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. It is important not to add sugar to the apples, as the base and meringue will be sweet enough.

3. Preparing the meringue:
- When the base is ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Meanwhile, we start working on the meringue. In a clean bowl, add the egg whites and begin to beat them at medium speed.
- When the egg whites become frothy, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. To check the consistency, carefully turn the bowl of meringue upside down; it should not fall out.
- Incorporate the ground walnuts with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the meringue.

4. Assembling the cake:
- Evenly sprinkle the apple mixture over the baked base, ensuring that the entire surface is covered.
- Carefully pour the meringue over the apples, leveling it with a spatula. A well-applied meringue will create a delicious crunchy crust once baked.

5. Final baking:
- Place the cake back in the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes or until the meringue becomes golden and firm. You can check again with a toothpick if it is fully cooked.

6. Serving:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting. It can be served plain or with a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast. Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top for a more appealing look.

Practical tips:
- Choose tart apples for a better balance between sweet and sour.
- You can replace the walnuts with ground almonds or add chopped dark chocolate for an even more intense flavor.
- If you want to enhance the aroma, you can add a little vanilla extract to the meringue.

Nutritional benefits:
The apple and meringue cake is a wonderful source of fiber, thanks to the apples, which contribute to digestive health. The walnuts add protein and healthy fats, making this dessert not only delicious but also more nutritious.

Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use other types of apples?* Yes, but make sure to choose apples with a balanced taste, so as not to make the cake too sweet.
- *How can I store the cake?* It is best to keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container, where it can last up to 3 days.

The apple and walnut meringue cake is an excellent choice for any occasion, from gatherings with friends to family nights. Give it a try and let your taste buds enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: for dough 6 tablespoons yellow flour 6 tablespoons sugar 6 tablespoons oil vanilla sugar 6 tablespoons flour for pastries - flour that has baking powder in it - or add 1 teaspoon baking powder. for filling 6 large Grand Smith apples - grated and sprinkled with the juice of 1/2 lemon raisins a little ground cinnamon for meringue 6 egg whites 6 tablespoons sugar 6 tablespoons finely ground walnuts