Apple and Walnut Cake

Apple and Walnut Cake - a recipe that combines tradition with flavor

When it comes to cakes, nothing compares to the aroma and taste of a cake made with fresh apples. This apple and walnut cake recipe is one of those delights that makes you feel at home, enjoying simple yet flavorful moments. It is an easy-to-make cake, with a crumbly dough and a delicious filling, perfect for any occasion or simply to pamper the family.

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

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 tablespoons lard (or butter, if preferred)
- 100 ml milk
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3-4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (or nutmeg/ginger powder, depending on preferences)

For the filling:
- 1.5 kg apples (about 6-7 large apples)
- Sugar (depending on the sweetness of the apples and personal taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- 200 g walnuts (coarsely chopped)

History of the recipe

Apple cake is a dessert rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Apples, a staple ingredient, have been cultivated for millennia and used in various sweet and savory dishes. This simple yet elegant recipe has been passed down through generations, serving as a wonderful way to celebrate the bounty of autumn and bring happiness to family tables.

Preparing the dough

1. Start by mixing the flour with the baking powder in a large bowl. This combination will give the cake a slightly fluffy texture.
2. In another bowl, dissolve the sugar in the milk. It is important not to use cold milk, but to bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly.
3. Add the lard (or butter) cut into small cubes, the beaten egg, lemon zest, and cinnamon to the flour mixture.
4. Use your hands to knead the dough. If you have a food processor, you can use it to save time. The dough is ready when it becomes compact and non-sticky; depending on the humidity of the flour, you may need to add 1-2 tablespoons more flour.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to give it firmness, which will facilitate further rolling out.

Preparing the filling

6. Meanwhile, peel the apples and grate them using a large grater. If the apples are very juicy, gently squeeze them to remove excess liquid.
7. In a saucepan, place the grated apples together with the sugar (adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the apples) and cinnamon. Sauté them over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes until softened. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
8. Once the apples have cooled, add the semolina and mix well. This will absorb excess moisture and prevent the dough from becoming too wet during baking.
9. Coarsely chop the walnuts and lightly toast them in a pan, without oil, for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the walnuts to the apple mixture and mix well.

Assembling the cake

10. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
11. Prepare a 30x25 cm baking dish, ensuring it is clean and completely dry (no greasing or parchment paper is necessary).
12. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Place the first half of the dough in the baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Use a fork to prick the dough here and there, which will help prevent air bubbles from forming.
13. Add the apple and walnut filling, leveling it evenly.
14. Roll out the other half of the dough over the filling, pricking again with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

Baking

15. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 35-45 minutes until golden and nicely browned.
16. Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the dish for 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving

17. Before serving, dust the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant look. This cake is delicious both warm and cold and can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream for a delightful contrast.

Tips and tricks

- If your apples are very juicy, you can add a little more semolina to the filling or sprinkle a tablespoon of semolina on the bottom to absorb excess juice.
- You can vary the filling according to your tastes, trying combinations with cottage cheese or poppy seeds.
- Another trick is to add a few Brazil nuts or almonds to the filling for a crunchy note.
- If you prefer a more exotic taste, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the apple mixture.

Nutritional information

This apple and walnut cake is a delicious yet nutritious choice. Apples are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, while walnuts provide healthy fats, protein, and minerals. Although the cake has a moderate calorie content, it is perfect for enjoying in moderation. A serving (approximately 100 g) contains about 250 kcal, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

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

2. How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

3. Is it possible to freeze the cake? Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled, then you can cut it into portions and freeze it in plastic wrap.

The apple and walnut cake is not just a dessert, but a family story, a tradition that brings loved ones together. So take your time to enjoy each step of making this delight, because cooking is, after all, an art that combines love and passion. Place it on your table and let it become part of the beautiful moments spent with loved ones!

 Ingredients: 500g flour, 1 baking powder, 4 tablespoons lard, 100ml milk, 1 egg, zest of one lemon, 3-4 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon/nutmeg/ginger powder. For the filling: 1.5kg apples, sugar (depending on the sweetness of the apples and your taste), 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 2 tablespoons semolina, 200g walnuts.

 Tags:  apple and walnut cake