Apple and cinnamon cake

Apple and cinnamon cake - a recipe that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warm aroma of cinnamon, perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of tea or coffee. This quick dessert is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for moments when you want to impress without too much effort.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 2 large apples, peeled, halved, and then sliced thinly
- 200 g sugar + 3 tablespoons
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 150 g butter, melted and cooled
- 4 eggs
- 250 g flour
- vanilla essence (optional, but recommended)
- a pinch of salt

A bit of history:
The cake is a classic dessert, found in numerous variations over the years, popular in the kitchens of many cultures. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but the idea of combining simple ingredients to create a tasty dessert has remained constant. The apple and cinnamon cake is a modern reinterpretation of this classic, where seasonal fruits contribute moisture and flavor.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the apples:
Start by washing the apples well, peeling them, and cutting them in half. Then, slice each half into thin slices. Place the apple slices in a bowl and sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of sugar and the teaspoon of cinnamon over them. Gently mix to coat the apples with sugar and flavor. Cover the bowl and let it sit for an hour so the apples release their juice and the flavors meld.

2. Preparing the batter:
In another bowl, mix the melted (but cooled) butter with the 200 g of sugar until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition so they incorporate completely. It's important that all the ingredients are at room temperature for an even mixture.

3. Combining the dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift the flour together with a pinch of salt. This step not only removes any lumps but also aerates the flour, contributing to a fluffier texture of the cake. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and egg mixture, mixing with a spatula or a mixer on low speed until everything is well incorporated. If you choose to use vanilla essence, now is the time to add it for extra flavor.

4. Assembling the cake:
Before starting the assembly, preheat the oven to 150°C. Grease a loaf pan with butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Start by pouring a thin layer of batter into the pan, followed by a layer of apple slices arranged vertically. Continue to alternate layers of batter and apples, finishing with a layer of batter. This technique not only adds a pleasing appearance to the cake but also ensures that each slice will have a generous portion of apples.

5. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes. Check if it's done by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. If you notice that the top is browning too much, cover it with aluminum foil in the last 15 minutes of baking.

6. Cooling and serving:
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. It can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which will contrast beautifully with the warmth of the cake.

Practical tips:
- Use apples of different varieties to achieve a varied texture and taste. Tart apples, like Granny Smith, provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the sugar.
- If you want to enrich the recipe, you can add nuts or raisins to the batter for an extra texture and flavor.
- The cake can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days, but it can also be frozen for moments when you crave a quick dessert.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of apple and cinnamon cake has about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, and cinnamon is known for its antioxidant properties. Thus, this dessert is not only tasty but also a healthier choice compared to other sweets.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace butter with oil?
Yes, but the taste and texture will be different. Butter provides a richer flavor.

2. What type of flour should I use?
All-purpose flour (wheat flour) is the most suitable for this recipe.

3. How can I prevent the apples from browning?
You can sprinkle the apple slices with a little lemon juice to prevent them from darkening.

Now is the time to try this apple and cinnamon cake recipe! Whether you enjoy it in the morning with coffee or as a dessert after dinner, it is sure to bring a smile to your face and those of your loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 2 apples, peeled, cut in half and then sliced 200 g sugar + 3 tablespoons 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 150 g butter, melted and cooled 4 eggs 250 g flour vanilla essence a pinch of salt