Apple pie with cookies

Apple Cake with Cookies - A Simple and Comforting Delight

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 10

If you are looking for a dessert that combines the warm aroma of apples with the crunchy texture of cookies, the apple cake with cookies is the perfect choice! This recipe is not only simple but also delicious, with a rich history tied to home culinary traditions and family evenings spent around the table.

Ingredients:
- 2 kg apples (choose sweet and fragrant apples like Golden or Granny Smith)
- 400 g sugar (you can adjust the amount depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- 4 packets of vanilla pudding (or 2 if you prefer a lighter texture)
- 500 g cookies (vegan cookies or Petit Beurre cookies, depending on preference)
- 100 g raisins (choose golden raisins for a color contrast)
- 100 ml rum (or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for an extra flavor)

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the raisins. Soak them in rum for about 30 minutes. This step is not only to rehydrate them but also to give them a deep flavor, perfect for combining with the apples.

2. Meanwhile, wash the apples under cold running water. Peel and cube them. Bring them to a boil in a large pot, adding 500 ml of water and 400 g of sugar. Let them simmer over medium heat until soft, about 20 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Once the apples are cooked, dissolve the vanilla pudding in 100 ml of cold water. Add the pudding mixture to the pot and let everything boil for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once the mixture thickens, turn off the heat and add the raisins and cinnamon. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Now it’s time to assemble the cake! Choose a rectangular baking dish or a cake mold. Place a first layer of cookies at the bottom of the dish, followed by a generous layer of apple cream. Continue to alternate layers of cookies and cream, ensuring that the last layer is apple. If you want to add a touch of originality, as I did, you can spread a thin layer of Finetti or another type of chocolate cream on the last layer of cookies, which will add a delicious contrast.

5. Cover the cake and let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until it sets well.

6. Serve the cake cold, cut into slices, as a delicious dessert after a warm dinner or as a snack between meals. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for a truly decadent experience.

Nutritional Benefits:
Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, helping to improve digestion and heart health. The vanilla pudding adds a note of protein, while the raisins are an excellent source of energy due to their high carbohydrate content. This recipe is an excellent choice for a healthy snack, especially if you are looking for a quick and comforting dessert.

Practical Tips:
- You can experiment with different types of apples to find the perfect combination of sweetness and acidity.
- If you don’t have rum, you can use apple juice or water with a little vanilla essence as an alternative.
- For a vegan version, replace the pudding with a plant-based option and ensure the cookies are free of animal-derived ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can use pears or peaches, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted based on the texture of the chosen fruit.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar added to the apples or use more tart apples.

3. Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free cookies or rice biscuits to achieve the same texture.

This apple cake with cookies is a recipe that brings a touch of warmth and familiarity to your table, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Don’t forget to savor every bite and share this recipe with friends and family to bring smiles to their faces!

 Ingredients: 2 kg apples, 400 g sugar, 4 packets of vanilla pudding (I only used 2), 500 g of biscuits (I used Petit Beurre, so I don't think they are vegan), cinnamon, rum, raisins.