Apple Pie

Apple cake with caramel cream - a fragrant delight for the soul and taste buds

When we say "apple cake", we think of a dessert that combines the warm and comforting flavors of apples with a fine texture and a decadent cream. This recipe is not just a simple dessert, but a true culinary experience that can transform any meal into a special moment. Whether it's a celebration or simply a family evening, this cake will bring smiles to the faces of loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 75 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For caramelization:
- 200 g sugar

For the apple filling:
- 6-7 medium-sized apples (preferably aromatic varieties)
- 6 walnuts (or more, depending on preferences)
- Jam (peach, apricot, or other favorite fruits)
- 30 g butter (to add extra flavor)

For the caramel cream:
- 6 eggs
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 1 liter milk

For the cake base:
- 6 eggs (separate the whites from the yolks)
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons flour

For decoration:
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Preparation

1. Caramelizing the sugar:
Start by caramelizing the sugar. Place 200 g of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Wait until the sugar melts and turns golden. It is important not to stir with a spoon, but to gently swirl the pan to distribute the heat evenly. Once caramelized, carefully pour the caramel into the baking dish, covering the sides of the dish. Let it cool completely.

2. Preparing the apples:
Peel the apples and core them, being careful not to damage them. Place the apples in the caramelized dish. In each apple, add a walnut, a teaspoon of jam, and a cube of butter. These ingredients will create a delicious and aromatic filling that will perfectly combine with the caramel cream.

3. Baking the apples:
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C and leave it there until the apples become soft, about 30-40 minutes.

4. Preparing the caramel cream:
In a large bowl, beat the 6 eggs with 4 tablespoons of sugar and the 2 packets of vanilla sugar. Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously to obtain a homogeneous mixture. After the apples are baked, carefully pour the caramel cream over the apples in the dish.

5. Preparing the cake base:
In another bowl, beat the egg whites with 6 tablespoons of sugar until foamy. Then, add the yolks, mixing gently. Finally, fold in 6 tablespoons of flour. Mix everything carefully to keep the air in the mixture.

6. Finalizing the dessert:
Pour the cake base mixture over the caramel cream. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes, or until it passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready).

7. Cooling and serving:
After baking, let the cake cool slightly. Then, invert the dish onto a plate. Wait for it to cool completely, then refrigerate it until the next day. This step is essential to allow the flavors to meld and to achieve a perfect texture.

Serving suggestions

The apple cake with caramel cream is served cold, preferably with a dollop of whipped cream on top or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside. These will perfectly complement the sweet-sour flavors of the apples and the richness of the cream.

Possible variations

Experiment with different types of apples, such as Granny Smith apples for a tart note or Golden Delicious apples for a sweeter taste. You can also add cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel cream for an extra flavor boost.

Useful tips

- Make sure the apples are well cleaned and have no spots or signs of damage.
- Use a saucepan that can be used both on the stove and in the oven to avoid unnecessary transfers.
- If you want a moister cake, you can add a bit of lemon juice to the jam.
- The cake keeps well in the refrigerator but is recommended to be consumed within 3 days.

Nutritional benefits

This apple cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins C and K, while walnuts provide healthy fats and protein. Additionally, this dessert can be a healthier option for those looking to avoid heavily processed sweets.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can it be made with canned apples?
While it's best to use fresh apples, canned apples can be used. Make sure to drain them well to avoid excess water.

2. How can I avoid caramelizing the sugar?
If the sugar starts to caramelize too quickly, reduce the heat. It is important not to leave the sugar unattended, as it can burn very quickly.

3. Can I add other ingredients?
Sure! You can add raisins, chocolate, or even other fruits to the apple filling for a delicious variation.

4. Is it possible to freeze the apple cake?
While it is recommended to consume it fresh, the cake can be frozen, but the texture may suffer a bit. Make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

In conclusion, the apple cake with caramel cream is a versatile and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion. Feel free to adapt it to your tastes and experiment with various ingredients. It will surely become a favorite in your family!

 Ingredients: 200 g sugar for caramelizing, 4 tablespoons for the cream and 6 tablespoons for the base, 6-7 medium apples, a pinch of nutmeg, jam (of your choice), butter, 1 liter of milk, 12 eggs (6 for the burnt sugar cream, 6 for the base), 6 tablespoons of flour, vanilla sugar, whipped cream.

 Tags:  apple pie