Apple pie with meringue

Apple and Meringue Cake – A Sweet Indulgence for the Soul

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Who doesn't love the inviting aroma of baked apples mixed with the sweetness of meringue? The apple and meringue cake is a classic dessert that reminds us of childhood, family moments, and the treats made with love. This recipe is not only delicious but also very easy to make, even for those less experienced in the kitchen. Let's start the culinary adventure!

Ingredients

*For the base:*
- 5 egg yolks
- 10 tablespoons milk
- 10 tablespoons oil
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 12 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Grated orange peel (about half an orange)

*For the filling:*
- 1.3 kg apples (about 3-4 large apples)
- 3-4 tablespoons sugar (depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 pinch of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon oil (for the pan)

*For the meringue:*
- 5 egg whites
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pinch of salt

Preparing the Filling

1. Wash the apples under cold running water and peel them. Choose your favorite apples; usually, the best for this dessert are the tart ones.
2. Grate the apples on a large grater, then gently squeeze them between your palms to remove excess juice, so it doesn't soak the base.
3. In a non-stick pan, add 1 tablespoon of oil and place it over medium heat.
4. Add the grated apples to the pan, along with 3-4 tablespoons of sugar, and let them cook for about 10 minutes until they soften and release their juices. Finally, add the cinnamon and mix well.
5. Turn off the heat and let the apples cool slightly.

Preparing the Base

1. In a large bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar using a mixer until the mixture becomes light in color and doubles in volume.
2. While continuing to mix, gradually add the oil and then the milk. Make sure the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Sift the flour together with the baking powder and grated orange peel, then gradually add them to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until you obtain a smooth dough.
4. Prepare a rectangular baking dish (about 30x20 cm) by greasing it with butter and lining it with parchment paper. Pour the dough into the dish and level it evenly.
5. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180 °C and bake the base for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden and passes the toothpick test.

Preparing the Meringue

1. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks.
2. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a shiny and firm meringue that holds stiff peaks.
3. Once the base is out of the oven, evenly spread the apple filling over it, ensuring it is level.
4. Spread the meringue over the apples using a spatula, and create decorative shapes with a kitchen comb or a fork for an appealing look.
5. Put the cake back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned.

Serving and Final Suggestions

1. Once the cake is ready, let it cool in the dish for 15-20 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
2. Cut the cake into squares or rectangles and serve it plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures.
3. This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of fruit tea or coffee, turning any moment into a special occasion.

Tips and Variations

- You can add some chopped nuts or raisins to the apple filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Instead of cinnamon, experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor.
- If you want a healthier version, replace some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.

Nutritional Benefits

This apple cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Apples are rich in fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining a healthy weight. Whole grain flour (if you choose to use it) adds extra fiber and vitamins. The meringue, while sweet, can be considered a lighter indulgence, as it is based on egg whites, which contain quality proteins.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears or apricots, but make sure to adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the fruits.

2. How do I store the cake?
It keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Make sure it is covered to prevent drying out.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
It's better to freeze the cake without the meringue, which can be added after thawing.

So, experiment with this simple yet delicious recipe and bring a touch of joy to your kitchen! The apple and meringue cake is more than just a dessert; it's a story, a memory, a sweet hug that you can share with your loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the base: 5 egg yolks, 10 tablespoons of milk, 10 tablespoons of oil, 8 tablespoons of sugar, 12 tablespoons of flour, 1 baking powder, grated orange peel. For the filling: 1.3 kg of apples, 3-4 tablespoons of sugar, a pinch of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of oil. For the meringue: 5 egg whites, 8 tablespoons of sugar, a pinch of salt.