Apple Kefir Cake

The Apple Kefir Cake is a light, airy, and mildly sweet cake that’s perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or dessert. This recipe combines basic pantry ingredients like flour, kefir, and butter with the sweet, tart flavors of fresh apple and a hint of lemon zest for added brightness. It’s an easy recipe that yields impressive results, and the use of kefir gives it a lovely softness while keeping the texture light and moist.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • All-purpose flour – 140g (approx. 1 cup)
  • Salt – ¼ tsp
  • Baking powder – 1.5 tsp (or ⅔ tsp baking soda mixed with a few drops of lemon juice to activate)
  • Vanilla powder – 1g (approx. ¼ tsp)
  • Butter – 60g (approx. ¼ cup), softened
  • Sugar – 50g (approx. ¼ cup)
  • Apple – 150-200g (approx. 1 cup), peeled and finely chopped
  • Kefir – 2 tbsp, to help the dough hold together
  • Lemon zest – optional, a sprinkle for extra flavor

For Topping:

  • Kefir or sour cream – for brushing
  • Granulated sugar – 2 tsp, for sprinkling

Steps to Prepare the Apple Kefir Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

  1. Sift the Flour: Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl. This will help ensure a smooth and lump-free batter.
  2. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the salt, baking powder (or baking soda with lemon juice), and vanilla powder to the sifted flour. Stir to combine.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

  1. Combine Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until light and creamy. This helps to incorporate air, which will give the cake a lighter texture.

Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Mix Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing gently to avoid overworking the batter.
  2. Add the Kefir: Add two tablespoons of kefir to the dough, mixing until it holds together without being sticky.
  3. Incorporate the Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples, along with lemon zest if you’re using it, for an added burst of freshness.

Step 4: Shape the Cake

  1. Form the Dough: Once the apples are evenly distributed, shape the dough into a round or oval loaf (or press it into a baking dish if you prefer).
  2. Brush with Kefir or Sour Cream: Brush the top with a bit of kefir or sour cream for a beautiful golden crust.
  3. Sprinkle with Sugar: Lightly sprinkle 2 teaspoons of sugar over the top to add a touch of sweetness and a slight crunch to the finished cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

  1. Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  2. Serve: Slice and enjoy the cake as it is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)

(Serves 8)

  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Calcium: 20mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use yogurt instead of kefir?

Yes, plain yogurt can be substituted for kefir in equal amounts. It will provide a similar texture and tanginess.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for better structure.

3. Can I use other fruits?

Yes, pears or berries can be excellent substitutes for apples. If using a softer fruit, ensure it’s not too ripe to avoid adding excess moisture.

4. What type of apple works best?

Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith are ideal because they hold their shape during baking and add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

Tips for Making the Perfect Apple Kefir Cake

  1. Avoid Overmixing: To keep the cake light, fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture. Overmixing can result in a dense texture.
  2. Choose Fresh Kefir: Use fresh kefir for a tangy flavor and the best results. Stale kefir might not provide the same leavening effect.
  3. For an Extra Crunch: If you enjoy a bit of texture, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter.
  4. Experiment with Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of this cake and complement the apples beautifully.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: This cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: If you want to store it for a longer time, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving, or warm it slightly in the oven.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

The Apple Kefir Cake is a deliciously simple cake that’s ideal for any occasion. The tangy kefir, fresh apple pieces, and soft crumb make this cake irresistibly good, and it pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. With its easy preparation and flexibility with ingredients, this cake is a fantastic go-to recipe for when you’re craving something homemade, light, and satisfying. Happy baking!