Imagine capturing the essence of a five-star restaurant’s dessert right in your own kitchen. This apple cake is more than just a recipe – it’s a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Inspired by classic European baking techniques, this cake brings together the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of ripe apples, and a perfectly tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients (US and Metric Measurements)
- 3 large eggs / 3 große Eier
- Pinch of salt / Eine Prise Salz
- 125g (1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon) granulated sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 180g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 120g (1/2 cup) yogurt
- 2 medium apples
- 20g (1 1/2 tablespoons) butter
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease a 24cm (9-inch) baking dish with butter.
- Prepare the apples: Peel and slice the apples. Simmer them in a pan over low heat for 5-7 minutes until slightly softened.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add sugar. Whisk until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla sugar (or extract) and salt to the egg mixture. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour with baking powder.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, folding gently to combine.
- Stir in the yogurt until the batter is smooth and well-integrated.
- Layer the simmered apples at the bottom of the buttered baking dish.
- Sprinkle cinnamon over the apples.
- Pour the cake batter over the apple layer, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for 10 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter
- Don’t overmix the batter – this can lead to a tough cake
- Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith for best results
- Check the cake’s doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
- Replace yogurt with sour cream for a richer texture
- Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch
- Use gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly version
- Swap cinnamon with cardamom for a different flavor profile
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes! The cake stays fresh for 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q: Can I freeze this apple cake? A: Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat the cake? A: Warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-10 minutes to maintain its moisture.
Q: Can I use a different type of fruit? A: Pears or peaches work wonderfully as alternatives to apples.
Q: Is this cake suitable for vegans? A: The current recipe is not vegan, but you can substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based yogurt.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store at room temperature, covered, for 2-3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Best enjoyed slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Enjoy your restaurant-quality apple cake – a true culinary delight that proves gourmet desserts can be simple and quick to prepare!
