This apple cake is a perfect blend of buttery, tangy, and sweet flavors. The combination of tender apples and a creamy topping creates an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Simple ingredients come together for a comforting and satisfying treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Cake Base:

• 100 grams of butter (softened)
• 200 grams of powdered sugar
• 5 eggs
• Lemon peel (zest of 1 lemon)
• 250 grams of flour

For the Apple Layer:

• 4 apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• 3 eggs
• 250 grams of 30% sour cream
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 100 grams of softened butter and 200 grams of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the Eggs: Gradually add 5 eggs to the mixture, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.
4. Lemon Zest: Stir in the zest of one lemon, which will add a fresh citrusy note to the cake base.
5. Mix in the Flour: Gradually add 250 grams of flour to the mixture, folding it in gently until smooth. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
6. Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan, spreading it evenly to create the base for the cake.

2. Prepare the Apple Layer:

1. Slice the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the 4 apples into thin wedges.
2. Arrange on the Batter: Evenly distribute the apple slices on top of the cake batter. Make sure to cover the surface completely for a nice, fruity layer.

3. Make the Cream Topping:

1. Mix the Cream Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, 250 grams of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. This mixture will form a creamy, tangy topping for the apples.
2. Pour the Cream Mixture: Gently pour the cream mixture over the apple slices, making sure to cover the apples evenly.

4. Bake the Cake:

1. Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake at 180°C (356°F) for about 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cake is set in the center. You can check the doneness by inserting a toothpick into the middle—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
2. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 330
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 6g
• Sugar: 22g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different kind of fruit? Yes! While apples are classic, you can substitute them with pears, peaches, or even berries for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of the moisture content in other fruits, as it may affect the texture of the cake.
2. Can I use a gluten-free flour? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use one with xanthan gum or add it separately to provide structure to the cake.
3. What can I serve with this cake? This apple cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.
5. Why did my cake turn out dense? Overmixing the batter after adding the flour can cause the cake to become dense. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated to maintain a light, fluffy texture.

Cooking Tips:

1. Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe as their tartness contrasts well with the sweetness of the cake. However, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter option.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, evenly mixed batter.
3. Lemon Zest: Be careful to only zest the yellow part of the lemon skin, as the white pith can be bitter.
4. Even Baking: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the cake halfway through baking to ensure it bakes evenly.
5. Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, you can sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds on top before baking.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover apple cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake becomes even more flavorful the next day as the flavors meld together.
2. Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Conclusion:

This apple cake is a wonderfully comforting dessert that combines a buttery cake base with a rich sour cream topping and the tartness of apples. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a perfect treat for family gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it on its own with a cup of tea. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes!