Apple and cinnamon cake

Apple and cinnamon cake is a delicacy that evokes the warm and comforting flavors of autumn, perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of coffee or tea. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, making it ideal for any occasion, whether it's a gathering with friends or a quiet evening at home. Additionally, it's a great way to make use of fresh apples, rich in vitamins and minerals. Let's explore together how to prepare this delicious cake!

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
- Number of servings: 12

Ingredients
- 250 g butter (at room temperature)
- 250 g sugar
- 5 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 250 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 kg apples (preferably sweet-tart varieties)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. Also, choose fresh apples, preferably varieties like Golden Delicious or Granny Smith for a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.

2. Beating the butter: In a large bowl, add the butter and mix it with an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes fluffy and light in color (about 3-5 minutes). This step is crucial for achieving an airy texture.

3. Adding the eggs and sugar: Continue by gradually adding the sugar, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finally, add the vanilla extract and mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and ground cinnamon. These dry ingredients will give the cake a warm flavor and pleasant texture. Add the dry ingredient mixture into the butter and egg mixture, gently folding with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.

5. Preparing the apples: Peel the apples and cut them into small cubes. Add them to the batter and gently mix to ensure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a 25x35 cm baking dish with parchment paper and pour the batter into the dish, leveling it with the back of a spoon. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cooling and serving: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the dish for 10-15 minutes. After it has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Cut the cake into squares and serve it alongside a fragrant coffee or warm tea.

Helpful tips
- Ingredient variations: You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for extra texture and flavor. You can also try replacing some of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Serving: The apple and cinnamon cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful culinary experience.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: One serving of cake (approximately 100 g) contains about 300 calories. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C, and cinnamon is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions
- What type of apples should I use?
Sweet-tart apples, like Golden Delicious or Granny Smith, are ideal for this recipe, as they provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

- Can I use salted butter?
It is recommended to use unsalted butter to better control the salt level in the cake.

- How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it, cut into portions, to have it on hand whenever you want a quick dessert.

Conclusion
The apple and cinnamon cake is not just a simple dessert, but a true blend of flavors and textures that reminds you of warm autumn days. Enjoying this cake will make you savor every bite, and its aroma will fill your home with an inviting scent. So, don't hesitate to try this simple recipe and share the joy of cooking with your loved ones!

We mix the butter until it becomes fluffy, then we add the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. We mix until well combined. We combine the flour with the baking powder and cinnamon, and then incorporate it into the mixture. We peel the apples and cut them into small cubes, then add them to the dough and mix gently. We spread the dough in a baking tray (25x35 cm) lined with parchment paper and level it with the back of a spoon. We place the tray in the oven at a moderate temperature until it passes the toothpick test (~35 minutes). We let the cake cool, then dust it with sugar and portion it out.

 Ingredients: 250 g butter, 250 g sugar, 5 eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 250 g flour, 1 baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 kg apples, powdered sugar (for decoration)

 Tags:  apple pie