Apple pie

Apple Cake: The Delight That Will Enchant Your Senses

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 servings

Today, I invite you to discover an absolutely delicious apple cake, based on a traditional recipe that will bring you not only flavor but also pleasant childhood memories. This apple cake features a tender and aromatic dough filled with a sweet and tart apple mixture that will delight any meal. It is perfect for serving alongside loved ones, especially during unexpected visits from friends or family.

A Bit of History

Apples have been cultivated for millennia, and apple cakes have become a symbol of home cooking. Whether used in pies, cakes, or tarts, apples are a versatile ingredient that loves warmth. This apple cake combines tradition with exquisite taste, perfect for enjoying during a gathering with friends or at a family Sunday dinner.

Necessary Ingredients

- 500 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- 2 eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 400 g sugar
- 2 kg apples (choose more tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Golden)
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- 180 g lard or 250 g margarine
- a little milk (as needed for kneading)
- 1 lemon (zest)
- powdered sugar for decoration

Preparing the Dough

1. Start by placing the flour in a large bowl. Add the salt and baking powder, mixing the dry ingredients well.
2. Incorporate the lard (or margarine) into the flour mixture, rubbing it well with your fingers until you achieve a crumb-like texture.
3. Add the sugar (100 g) and mix again. Follow with the whole eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla sugar. Mix everything until well combined.
4. Depending on the consistency of the dough, gradually add milk until you achieve a soft but not sticky dough.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. If prepared the night before, it will have an even more intense flavor from the ingredients.

Preparing the Filling

1. Wash the apples well and grate them, keeping the skin to add a pleasant texture to the filling.
2. Place the grated apples in a saucepan, add the cinnamon and the remaining sugar (300 g). Let them simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples release their juice.
3. After about 10 minutes, add the semolina to absorb the juice released by the apples. Let the mixture simmer for another 10 minutes, then remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assembling the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Grease a large baking dish with butter or margarine and line it with parchment paper.
3. Roll out a sheet of dough on the bottom of the dish, ensuring it is even.
4. Pour the apple filling over the dough, spreading it evenly.
5. From the remaining dough, form thin strips and place them diagonally over the filling, creating a lattice pattern.
6. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, until golden and beautifully browned.

Finishing and Serving

1. Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the dish for 10-15 minutes.
2. Dust powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance and added sweetness.
3. Cut the cake into desired shapes: rectangles, squares, or diamonds, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

This apple cake is delicious at any time of the day. It is perfect for a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert after dinner. It can be served plain or alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

The apple cake has approximately 250 calories per serving, depending on the size of the slices and the ingredients used. Apples are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Additionally, cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

In conclusion, this apple cake is not just a simple recipe but also a story full of memories and beautiful moments with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, it is guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of those dear to you. So, don't hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy the final result. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g flour, 1 baking powder, a pinch of salt, 2 eggs, 2 vanilla sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 400 g sugar, a little powdered sugar, 2 kg apples, 2 tablespoons semolina, 180 g lard (or 250 g margarine), a little milk (for kneading), 1 lemon

 Tags:  apple pie