Apple meringue pie
Apple Meringue Cake: An Irresistible and Nostalgic Delight
When we think of desserts that remind us of childhood, apple meringue cake holds a top spot in the hearts of many. This simple yet extremely delicious recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apples with a fluffy meringue, creating a perfect contrast of textures and tastes. While there are many variations of this cake, today we will focus on the classic recipe, which, in my opinion, is perfect as it is.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 12
Ingredients:
- 6 eggs
- 9 tablespoons of sugar (for the batter) + 10 tablespoons (for the meringue)
- 9 tablespoons of oil
- 10 tablespoons of milk
- 11 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch + 1 tablespoon
- 1.5 kg of apples
- Cinnamon to taste
Preparation:
1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples and grating them. This step is essential as grated apples will cook faster and combine better with the other ingredients. In a pot, add the grated apples, 9 tablespoons of sugar, and a little cinnamon. Place the mixture over medium heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until there is no more liquid left. This step will enhance the flavor of the apples and create a delicious filling. Once the mixture is ready, let it cool.
2. Preparing the batter: Begin by separating the egg yolks from the whites. In a large bowl, beat the yolks with 9 tablespoons of sugar using a mixer until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This step is crucial, as the incorporated air will give the cake a light texture. Gradually add the oil while continuing to mix. Then, incorporate the milk and mix well.
3. Incorporating the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add the baking powder and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, mixing until well combined.
4. Baking the base: Grease a baking pan with margarine and dust it with flour. Pour the batter into the pan and place it in the preheated oven at a low temperature (about 160°C) for 25 minutes. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 20 minutes to allow the cake to rise beautifully.
5. Preparing the meringue: Meanwhile, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add the 10 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to mix until the meringue becomes firm and glossy. Finally, incorporate 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, which will help stabilize the meringue.
6. Assembling the cake: After the base has baked for 25 minutes, remove it from the oven. Evenly spread the grated apple mixture over the baked base. Then, spread the meringue over the apples, ensuring that the entire surface is covered.
7. Finishing the baking: Put the cake back in the oven and let it bake for another 20 minutes, until the meringue turns golden and crispy. This is the moment to enjoy the enticing aroma that will fill the entire room.
8. Serving: Once the cake has cooled, you can cut it into squares and serve it plain or with a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream. The latter adds a creamy note that perfectly complements the cake.
Useful tips:
- If you want a more aromatic version, you can add nutmeg or vanilla to the apple mixture.
- You can replace some of the flour with cocoa to achieve a more interesting base, as you mentioned. However, I recommend the original recipe, which is a perfect combination of sweetness and acidity.
- Make sure the apples are well drained before adding them to the batter to avoid the cake becoming too wet.
Nutritional benefits:
This cake contains apples, which are rich in fiber and vitamins, providing a healthy source of antioxidants. Additionally, the eggs bring high-quality protein, and the sugar can be adjusted according to your preferences to make the cake less sweet without affecting its taste.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned apples? It is recommended to use fresh apples, but if they are unavailable, you can use canned apples, making sure to drain them well.
2. Can I replace sugar with a sweetener? Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners, but make sure to follow the correct proportions, as they can affect the texture of the cake.
3. How do I store the cake? The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.
This apple meringue cake is not just a dessert; it's a cooking experience full of nostalgia. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. I invite you to try this recipe and enjoy every bite of this delicacy!
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons of sugar + 9 + 10 tablespoons of oil, 10 tablespoons of milk, 11 tablespoons of flour, cinnamon, 1 baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch + 1, 1.5 kg of apples
