Vegan apple pie with grated dough

Apple and Grated Dough Cake: a delicious and easy recipe

A cake that evokes autumn days when apples are at their peak, this apple and grated dough cake (also known as ray cake) is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a recipe that can be easily made by anyone. Whether you're a novice in cooking or an experienced enthusiast, this fasting cake will surely become one of your favorites.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 servings

Ingredients:

- 300 g flour
- 250 g margarine (or butter for a richer option)
- 200 g sugar
- 4 medium apples, peeled
- Apricot jam (or your favorite jam)
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon flour (for the filling)
- 100 g walnut kernels, crushed
- A pinch of salt
- 2-3 tablespoons oil (optional, for a fluffier texture)

Necessary utensils:

- Rectangular baking dish (approximately 30x20 cm)
- Grater
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife for cutting apples

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add flour, salt, and diced margarine. Use your fingers to rub the margarine into the flour until you achieve a texture similar to breadcrumbs. This will help create a slightly crumbly dough, ideal for this cake.

2. Adding sugar and water:
Add 100 g of sugar and 1/2 cup of cold water. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated, then knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth. If you prefer a fluffier texture, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of oil.

3. Dividing the dough:
Divide the dough into two pieces, one larger (about 2/3 of the dough) and one smaller (about 1/3). Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This step will help the dough firm up and be easier to roll out.

4. Preparing the baking dish:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease the rectangular baking dish with oil or margarine and dust it with flour to prevent the cake from sticking.

5. Rolling out the dough:
Take the larger piece of dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out into a thin sheet, large enough to cover the bottom of the dish. Place the sheet of dough in the dish.

6. Filling the cake:
Spread the dough in the dish with apricot jam. Be sure to choose a quality jam to add an intense and aromatic flavor. Peel the apples, then grate them. Evenly spread the grated apples over the jam.

7. Preparing the filling:
In a small bowl, mix the remaining sugar (100 g) with one tablespoon of flour and crushed walnuts. Sprinkle this mixture over the grated apples. The walnuts will add a crunchy note and a deep flavor to the cake.

8. Finishing the cake:
Take the smaller piece of dough out of the refrigerator. You can grate it to obtain thin strips that you will place as a lattice over the filling, or you can roll it out into a thin sheet and cut it into strips. Arrange the strips of dough over the filling to form an attractive pattern.

9. Baking:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough turns golden. The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply irresistible.

10. Cooling and serving:
After the cake is baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool completely in the dish. This step is essential as the cake will be easier to cut and will have a more pleasant texture. You can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar on top for an elegant look, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional benefits:

This apple and grated dough cake is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a fasting dessert but also a healthy snack. Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants, while walnuts add protein and essential fatty acids. Additionally, it is a healthier option due to its lower fat content, given the use of margarine.

Possible variations:

To bring a touch of originality to your cake, you can try the following variations:
- Replace the apricot jam with berry or peach jam for a different flavor.
- Add cinnamon or vanilla to the apple mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- Experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, for a unique texture and taste.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use butter for a richer flavor, but keep in mind that the cake will be higher in calories.

2. What type of apples are best for this cake?
Tart apples, such as Granny Smith or red apples, provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the jam.

3. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days, but you can also store it in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Conclusion:

The apple and grated dough cake is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that will delight both you and your loved ones. Once you've tried it, you'll surely want to make it again. It's perfect for a lazy afternoon, alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or as a special dessert for a festive meal. So, unleash your creativity and enjoy every bite!