Discover an elegant, health-conscious dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular layered apple cake. This family heirloom recipe creates a stunning presentation while maintaining wholesome nutrition, perfect for those seeking sophisticated treats without flour or refined sugar.
Ingredients
For the Apple Layer:
- 700g (4 medium) apples
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 20g (1½ tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the Binding Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon stevia
- 2 tablespoons (32g) natural peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For Finishing:
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Additional butter for greasing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). Thoroughly grease an 18cm (7-inch) springform pan with butter.
- Prepare the apples:
- Peel and core the apples
- Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice them very thinly
- Toss immediately with lemon juice to prevent browning
- Create the binding mixture:
- Whisk eggs until light and fluffy
- Add salt, stevia, and peanut butter
- Incorporate baking powder thoroughly
- Assemble the cake:
- Layer apple slices in the prepared pan, creating concentric circles
- Pour the binding mixture evenly over the apples
- Smooth the top surface
- Dot with butter pieces
- Bake for 40 minutes until golden brown and set.
- Cool completely in the pan before releasing.
- Finish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon.
Nutritional Information
Per slice (8 servings):
- Calories: 145
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Natural Sugars: 12g
- Healthy Fats: 7g
Time Requirements:
- Preparation: 25 minutes
- Baking: 40 minutes
- Cooling: 1 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Professional Tips and Tricks
- Maintain consistent apple slice thickness for even baking
- Arrange apple slices immediately after cutting to prevent oxidation
- Test doneness by inserting a knife into the center – it should meet slight resistance
- Cool completely to allow proper setting of the structure
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace peanut butter with almond or cashew butter
- Experiment with different sweeteners like monk fruit or erythritol
- Add vanilla extract or almond essence for depth
- Incorporate warm spices like nutmeg or cardamom
- Use pears instead of apples for seasonal variation
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did my cake not set properly?
A: Ensure apple slices are thoroughly dried after washing and eggs are at room temperature.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare up to 24 hours in advance and store refrigerated.
Q: Why is it important to cool completely?
A: Cooling allows the proteins to set fully, ensuring clean slices.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: While possible, freezing may alter the texture. Best enjoyed fresh.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store refrigerated for up to 3 days
- Bring to room temperature before serving
- Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-drying
- Do not stack when storing to maintain the beautiful layered appearance
- If making ahead, add cinnamon just before serving
This sophisticated thousand-layer apple cake proves that healthy desserts can be both visually stunning and delicious. Its elegant presentation and refined taste make it perfect for special occasions while keeping aligned with dietary preferences for flourless and sugar-free options.
