Lenten cake
Lenten Cake with Apples and Soy Milk Cream
Who said that during Lent you can't enjoy a delicious cake? This Lenten cake recipe with an apple base and soy milk cream will completely change your perception of desserts during this period. It is an easy recipe to make, bringing a delicate apple aroma and a creamy texture, perfect for celebrating special moments like anniversaries.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Servings: 12
Ingredients
For the Apple Base:
- 150g sugar or fructose
- 400ml water
- 100ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 50-100g ground nuts
- 4 large apples, grated
- 1 packet baking powder
- Flour (as needed, approximately 300-350g)
For the Milk Cream:
- 1l soy milk
- 150g sugar or fructose
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (or flour if you want a thicker cream)
- Vanilla essence
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Base
1. Caramelizing the Sugar/Fructose: In a saucepan, add the sugar or fructose and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking. When it starts to melt and turn golden, add hot water (be careful of the steam!). Stir until well combined.
2. Adding the Filling Ingredients: Once the mixture has cooled slightly, add the grated apples and ground nuts. Mix well.
3. Combining the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the apple mixture, along with the oil, until you obtain a rather thick dough.
4. Baking the Base: Preheat the oven to 180°C. It is recommended to bake two bases in separate trays for a better texture. If you choose to bake a single base, make sure to cut it evenly after baking. Bake for about 60 minutes, performing the toothpick test.
Step 2: Preparing the Milk Cream
1. Boiling the Milk: In a saucepan, pour 750ml of soy milk and bring it to a boil. Add the sugar and stir.
2. Preparing the Cornstarch: In a small bowl, combine the remaining cold milk with the cornstarch. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Thickening the Cream: When the milk reaches boiling point, pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan. Simmer over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens. Once ready, remove from heat and cover with cling film to prevent a crust from forming.
4. Flavoring the Cream: While the cream is still hot, add the vanilla essence and mix well.
Step 3: Assembling the Cake
1. Assembling the Cake: Once the bases and cream have completely cooled, begin assembly. Place one base on a platter, add a generous layer of vanilla cream, then cover with the second base.
2. Decorating the Cake: Use the cocoa cream (if you chose to prepare it) to coat the cake. You can decorate the cake with ground nuts or caramelized apple slices for a more appealing look.
3. Cooling: It is essential to let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.
Practical Tips
- Caramelizing Fructose: Fructose caramelizes faster than sugar, so be careful with the heat to avoid burning.
- The Toothpick Test: A handy trick is to use a toothpick to check if the base is baked. If it comes out clean, the base is ready!
- Variations: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the base for a warmer flavor. Also, the cream can be customized with cocoa, chocolate, or even coffee flavors.
Nutritional Values
This Lenten cake is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy dessert. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, 5g of protein, 10g of fats (mostly healthy), and 40g of carbohydrates. The apples provide a considerable amount of fiber, and the soy milk offers plant-based proteins.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of plant milk?
Yes, you can use almond or coconut milk, but keep in mind that each type has a distinct flavor that will influence the final taste of the cake.
2. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to appreciate its texture.
3. Is this cake vegan?
Yes, due to the use of plant-based ingredients, this cake is completely vegan and ideal for those following a plant-based diet.
Serving
This Lenten apple cake is perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or aromatic tea. It also pairs wonderfully with vegan ice cream or fruit caramel sauce.
So, get ready to surprise your friends and family with this delicious cake, proving that during Lent, you don't have to give up culinary delights! Enjoy and have an easy fast!
Ingredients: Apple Base: 150g sugar/fructose, 400 ml water, 100 ml oil, 50-100g ground nuts, 4 grated apples, 1 packet of baking powder, flour as needed. Milk Cream: 1 l soy milk, 150g sugar/fructose, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch (or flour if you want a thicker cream), vanilla essence.
