Apple-filled Cake

Apple-filled Cake Recipe from Oman - Delicious and Flavorful

Region / culture: Oman | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

The Apple-filled Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apples with a soft, moist cake. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the comforting taste of homemade cake and the natural sweetness of apples. It's a versatile dish that can be served at brunch, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert after a family dinner. The combination of simple ingredients and the heartwarming aroma of baking apples make this cake a favorite among home bakers.

History

The tradition of baking cakes with fruit fillings dates back centuries and spans across many cultures. The Apple-filled Cake, in particular, has its roots in the autumnal traditions of Europe and North America, where apples are abundant and are often used in desserts. This recipe has evolved over time, with each generation adding its own twist to the classic. It embodies the spirit of home cooking, bringing together the rich flavors of the harvest season in a simple yet delicious cake.

Ingredients

3 cups of chopped, peeled apples
2 cups of sugar
4 tbsp of cornstarch
3 cups of white flour
1 tbsp of baking powder
0.5 tsp of baking soda
0.33 cup of butter or margarine, softened but not melted
2 beaten eggs
1 cup of buttermilk
1 tsp of vanilla
0.5 cup of white flour

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine the Apples and 0.5 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes until the Apples are tender.
In a mixing bowl, stir together 1 cup of Sugar, 3 cups of flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Reserve 4 tbsp of butter. Add the remaining butter to the flour mixture and cut it in until it resembles fine crumbs.
Combine the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla. Add them to the flour mixture and stir just until moistened.
Spread half of the batter into a 9" x 13" cake pan. Spread the fruit mixture over the batter. Drop the remaining batter by rounded tablespoons over the top of the Apple filling. Do not spread it. Leave it in mounds evenly spaced on top of the filling.
On the side, combine the remaining 0.5 cup of Sugar and 0.5 cup of flour. Cut in the remaining 4 tbsp of butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Sprinkle it over the cake.
Bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 40–45 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Variations

Pear-filled Cake: Substitute pears for apples for a different but equally delicious flavor.
Gluten-Free Apple Cake: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Apple Cake: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture and use plant-based margarine and buttermilk.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple-filled Cake turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor. Mixing tart and sweet apples can enhance the taste of the filling.

- Make sure the apples are chopped into small, even pieces to ensure they cook thoroughly and evenly.

- When mixing the batter, avoid overmixing as it can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

- To achieve a golden and crispy topping, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top before baking.

- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is best served warm, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a festive touch, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the dish.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include simmering the apples to soften them, properly mixing the cake batter to ensure a light and fluffy texture, and baking the cake until it's golden brown and cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Brown sugar can be used instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor.

- Butter can replace margarine for a richer taste.

- Almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar can be a substitute for buttermilk for those avoiding dairy.

Make Ahead Tips

The apple filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The dry ingredients for the cake can also be mixed and kept in a sealed container until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cake on a rustic wooden board for a homely, inviting look. Garnish with fresh apple slices and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Pairing Recommendations

A cup of warm cider or a glass of dessert wine complements the flavors of the Apple-filled Cake beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a spiced tea or a latte would pair well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Apple-filled Cake contains approximately 350 calories. The calories are primarily derived from the carbohydrates and fats in the recipe.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Apple-filled Cake contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the flour and sugar, which provide the cake's structure and sweetness, respectively. The apples also contribute natural sugars and dietary fiber to the dish.

Fats

This cake contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the margarine used in the batter and topping. Using margarine instead of butter slightly reduces the saturated fat content, making it a marginally healthier option.

Proteins

Each serving of Apple-filled Cake provides around 4 grams of protein. The protein in this recipe comes from the eggs and the small amount present in the flour and buttermilk.

Vitamins and minerals

The apples in the cake are a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Additionally, the eggs and buttermilk contribute calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients help support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, wheat (gluten), and dairy (buttermilk). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, the Apple-filled Cake is a moderately indulgent dessert that offers a balance of sweet flavors and essential nutrients. While it is relatively high in carbohydrates and calories, it also provides vitamins and minerals from the apples and other ingredients.

Summary

The Apple-filled Cake is a timeless dessert that brings the warmth and comfort of homemade baking to any table. With its rich apple filling and soft, moist crumb, it's a treat that's sure to delight. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe offers a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of the season.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Apple-filled Cake. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. We were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and flipping through an old recipe book that she had inherited from her grandmother. As soon as I laid eyes on the recipe for Apple-filled Cake, I knew I had to give it a try.

Margaret's grandmother had scribbled notes in the margins of the recipe, adding her own personal touch to it. She had learned how to make the cake from a French friend who had taught her the secret to making the apple filling extra juicy and flavorful. I could almost taste the sweetness of the apples mixed with the warm spices as I read through the ingredients and instructions.

I asked Margaret if I could borrow the recipe, and she happily obliged. As I left her house that day, I couldn't wait to get home and start baking. I had always loved experimenting with new recipes, and this one seemed especially promising.

Once I got home, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and got to work. The kitchen was filled with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg as I peeled and sliced the apples, mixing them with sugar and spices to create the filling. The dough came together easily, and before long, I had a beautiful cake ready to go into the oven.

As the cake baked, I could hardly contain my excitement. The aroma that filled the house was absolutely divine, and I knew that this recipe was going to be a hit. When the cake was finally done, I pulled it out of the oven and let it cool on the counter while I made a cup of tea to enjoy with a slice.

The first bite of the Apple-filled Cake was pure heaven. The apples were perfectly tender, with just the right amount of sweetness, and the cake itself was moist and fluffy. The flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg danced on my tongue, and I couldn't help but smile as I savored every bite.

I brought a slice of the cake over to Margaret the next day, and her eyes lit up as she took a bite. She immediately asked for the recipe, and I gladly shared it with her. From that day on, Apple-filled Cake became a staple in both of our homes, a recipe that we would make for special occasions and lazy Sunday afternoons alike.

Over the years, I have made this cake for countless friends and family members, each time receiving rave reviews. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a touch of lemon zest or a sprinkle of toasted almonds, but the core of the recipe remains the same. It is a testament to the power of sharing recipes and passing down culinary traditions from generation to generation.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the joy that this recipe has brought into my life. It reminds me of the importance of friendship, of taking risks and trying new things, and of the simple pleasure of a homemade treat shared with loved ones.

And so, whenever I make Apple-filled Cake, I think of Margaret and her grandmother, of the French friend who shared the recipe, and of all the happy memories that have been created around this simple yet delicious dessert. It is a reminder that good food has the power to bring people together, to create lasting bonds, and to fill our hearts with warmth and love.