Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue

Panamanian Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue Recipe

Region / culture: Panama | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 65-75 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

This Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue is a delightful dessert that combines the moistness of a freshly baked cake with the light, crisp texture of meringue. It's a perfect treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal celebrations. The combination of tart Granny Smith apples with the sweet meringue creates a balanced flavor profile that's sure to please any palate. This recipe is not only about creating a delicious dessert but also about enjoying the process of baking, from the preparation of ingredients to the joy of sharing the final product with friends and family.

History

The tradition of combining apples with sweet dough can be traced back centuries in various cultures around the world. However, this particular Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue recipe is a modern take that has evolved from classic apple cake recipes. The addition of a meringue topping adds a unique texture and flavor that sets it apart from traditional apple cakes. This recipe is a testament to the creativity of home bakers who have experimented with adding different elements to enhance the classic apple cake.

Ingredients

10 oz (283 g) of all-purpose flour (about 2 cups)
10.5 oz (298 g) of sugar (about 1.5 cups)
a pinch of salt
1.5 sticks of unsalted cold butter, cut into small pieces
0.75 cup of milk
2 large eggs
1 tsp of vanilla
2 tsp of lemon zest
1 tbsp of baking powder
2 large granny smith apples
1 large egg white
3 tbsp of flour
2 tbsp of sugar

How to prepare

Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375°F (191°C).
Grease and flour a 9-inch spring-form pan.
In a large bowl, combine salt, butter, 2 cups of flour, and 0.5 cup of sugar.
Cut in the butter with your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Remove 1 cup of the crumbs and press them over the bottom and about 0.5 inch up the sides of the spring-form pan, creating a crust about 0.13 inch thick.
Make a well in the remaining crumb mixture.
Add the milk, eggs, vanilla, lemon zest, the remaining 3 tbsp of flour, and the baking powder to the well.
Using a whisk, thoroughly blend this mixture without incorporating the crumbs.
Then, using a wooden spoon, stir in the crumbs until well blended but still slightly lumpy.
Core, peel, and chop the apples into 0.5 inch pieces, then fold them into the mixture.
Scrape the batter into the pan.
In a small bowl, beat the egg white until foamy.
Beat in the remaining 2 tbsp of sugar until the whites barely form peaks.
Spread the mixture over the top of the batter.
Bake for 65 – 75 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 30 minutes on a wire rack.
Carefully remove the sides of the pan and allow the cake to finish cooling.
Serve the cake at room temperature.
If desired, the cake can be covered in plastic wrap and stored at cool room temperature for up to 2 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week. Warming it in the oven enhances its flavor.
To reheat, leave the cake on the pan base and place it in a cold oven on a tray. Set the temperature to 350°F (177°C) and turn off the oven when the temperature reaches 350°F (177°C).
The cake is delicious served alone, but whipped cream can be added as a topping if desired.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture. You can also experiment with different types of apples or add spices like nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture for a deeper flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, use Granny Smith apples for their tartness and firm texture, which hold up well during baking. When making the meringue, ensure that the bowl and whisk are completely clean and dry to help the egg whites reach their full volume. For a more pronounced lemon flavor, you can increase the amount of lemon zest used in the recipe. Additionally, make sure to cool the cake on a wire rack to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delicious served at room temperature or slightly warmed. For an extra indulgence, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance the flavors.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the preparation of the meringue topping. Beating the egg whites to the correct consistency is crucial for achieving the desired crackly texture. Additionally, folding the chopped apples gently into the batter ensures that the cake remains light and airy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of Granny Smith apples, any firm, tart apple will do. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond milk or another non-dairy milk in place of cow's milk. A gluten-free flour blend can be used in place of all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivities.

Make Ahead Tips

The cake can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature, covered in plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld together and can make serving easier, especially if you're planning for an event or gathering.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh apple slices before serving. Serving the cake on a decorative cake stand can also enhance its visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

This Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or tea. For a dessert wine option, consider a late harvest Riesling or a Moscato d'Asti, which complement the sweetness and tartness of the cake.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue contains approximately 350 calories. The calories are derived from a combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Carbohydrates

This Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates per serving. The carbohydrates come from the all-purpose flour, sugar, and apples used in the recipe. Carbohydrates are an essential part of a balanced diet, providing the body with energy.

Fats

Each serving of this cake contains about 15 grams of fat, primarily from the butter. While fats are an essential part of the diet, contributing to the absorption of vitamins and providing energy, it's important to consume them in moderation.

Proteins

This recipe provides about 5 grams of protein per serving, coming from the eggs and milk. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood.

Vitamins and minerals

The apples in this cake are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Eggs provide vitamin D, B6, B12, and minerals such as zinc, iron, and copper. Milk adds calcium, potassium, and vitamin D to the nutritional profile of this dessert.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, milk, and wheat (gluten). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dessert or look for suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, this Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue offers a mix of essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. While it is a delightful treat, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

This Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of apple cake with the unique texture of meringue. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and versatile serving options, it's a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe offers an opportunity to create a delicious treat that's sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue. The memory takes me back to a warm summer day many years ago, when I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in the countryside. Margaret was known for her delicious baked goods, and she always welcomed me into her kitchen with open arms.

As soon as I walked through the door, the sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon greeted me, and I knew Margaret was up to something special. She had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she handed me a piece of her famous apple cake, topped with a generous dollop of crackly meringue.

I took a bite and was immediately transported to a blissful state of dessert-induced euphoria. The cake was moist and tender, with just the right amount of sweetness from the apples and a hint of warmth from the cinnamon. And the meringue...oh, the meringue was like a cloud of sugary perfection, with a satisfying crackle as I sank my teeth into it.

I begged Margaret for the recipe, but she just laughed and said it was a family secret passed down through generations. Undeterred, I made a mental note to myself to recreate the delectable dessert as soon as I returned home.

When I got back to my own kitchen, I set to work experimenting with different apple cake recipes, trying to capture the essence of Margaret's creation. After several failed attempts and a few messy kitchen mishaps, I finally struck gold.

The key, I discovered, was using a combination of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet Fuji apples, which lent a perfect balance of flavors to the cake. I also added a touch of nutmeg and cloves to the batter, which brought a warm, comforting spice to the dessert.

But the real magic happened when I topped the cake with a cloud of meringue, whipped to stiff peaks with a hint of vanilla extract. As the cake baked in the oven, the meringue crackled and caramelized, creating a golden, crispy crust that added a delightful contrast to the soft, fluffy cake beneath.

I couldn't wait to share my creation with Margaret, so I invited her over for tea and dessert. When she took her first bite of the apple cake with crackly meringue, her eyes widened in surprise and delight.

"My dear, you've outdone yourself!" Margaret exclaimed, a wide smile spreading across her face. "This is even better than my family recipe!"

I beamed with pride, knowing that I had successfully recreated Margaret's beloved dessert and made it my own. From that day on, Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue became a staple in my baking repertoire, a recipe that I would pass down to future generations with the same love and care that Margaret had shown me.

As I sit here now, with the scent of apples and cinnamon wafting through my kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and friendships that have shaped my culinary journey. And as I take a bite of my beloved Apple Cake with Crackly Meringue, I am reminded of the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with the ones we love.