Apple pie
Apple Cake – A Flavorful Delight
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12
Who doesn't love the warm and comforting aroma of a fresh apple cake? This apple cake is not only a delicious dessert but also a sweet memory associated with family moments spent cooking together. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, this simple recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Magical Ingredients
- 1 kg apples (choose sweet or tart apples according to your preference)
- 250 g sugar (adjust the amount to taste)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for an extra flavor)
- 500 g flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- 150 g lard (or butter, if preferred)
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- Breadcrumbs (to add texture)
- Milk (to achieve the perfect dough)
A Brief History
Apple cake has been cherished throughout time in various cultures, often associated with celebrations and moments of joy. Apples, nutrient-rich and packed with antioxidants, have been cultivated and consumed for thousands of years, symbolizing health and prosperity. This recipe is a reinterpretation of tradition, maintaining the simple essence of natural ingredients while bringing it into contemporary times.
Step by Step – Making the Cake
1. Preparing the Apples
Start by peeling and grating the apples. This step is crucial as grated apples will incorporate better into the dough and add moisture to the cake. Once grated, mix the apples with 120 g of sugar (adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the apples) and add the vanilla sugar, cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs. Then, squeeze the apples well to remove excess juice. This will prevent the cake from becoming too wet.
2. Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Add the lard cut into cubes, 130 g of sugar, the egg yolks, and the sour cream. Use a mixer or spatula to mix the ingredients until you obtain a smooth dough. If the dough is too dry, add a little warm milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes moldable.
3. Forming the Cake
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Roll out the first part of the dough and place it evenly in the pan. Sprinkle a little breadcrumbs to absorb the moisture from the apples, then add a generous layer of grated apples. Sprinkle some cinnamon and a bit of breadcrumbs again, and finally, cover with the second part of the dough. Use a fork to gently prick the surface to allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the cake for 30-40 minutes or until golden and fragrant. It is important to check the cake after 30 minutes, as each oven bakes differently.
5. Finishing the Cake
Once the cake is baked, let it cool slightly, then dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance and sweet taste.
Serving and Variations
The apple cake can be served plain, but you can enhance it with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, I encourage you to experiment with other spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to customize the recipe to your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute lard?
Yes, you can use butter or even coconut oil. This will slightly change the texture, but the result will be just as delicious.
2. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for a longer period.
3. Can this recipe be adapted for vegans?
Yes! Substitute the egg yolks with ground flaxseeds mixed with water and use margarine instead of lard.
Nutritional Benefits
This apple cake provides a good source of vitamins and minerals thanks to the apples, which are rich in fiber and antioxidants. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the ingredients used, making it a suitable choice for an occasional sweet treat.
A Personal Detail
I have always loved making this apple cake with my mother. I have tried to recreate her childhood recipe, and every time I make it, I remember the moments filled with laughter and aromas in the kitchen. I encourage you to do the same and create beautiful memories around this delicious cake.
I wish you much success in cooking and enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 1 kg apples, cinnamon, 1 packet vanilla sugar, 500 g flour, 150 g lard, 250 g sugar, 3 egg yolks, 1 packet baking powder, breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon sour cream, milk
