Dutch apple cake

Dutch Apple Cake Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Region / culture: Netherlands | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Dutch apple cake is a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with a light and fluffy cake base, creating a delightful treat that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

The origins of Dutch apple cake can be traced back to the Netherlands, where it is a popular dessert enjoyed by many. The combination of apples and cake has been a classic pairing for centuries, and this recipe puts a modern twist on a traditional favorite.

Ingredients

1 cup of flour
5 tbsp of sugar
1 tsp of baking powder
2 tbsp of low fat margarine
2 slightly beaten egg whites
0.25 cup of skim milk
0.5 tsp of vanilla extract
4 cups of sliced peeled apples
1 tsp of ground cinnamon

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch tart or pie pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, 2 tsp of sugar, and baking powder.
Using a pastry blender or 2 knives, cut in 1.5 tsp of margarine.
Add egg whites, milk, and vanilla; beat until smooth. The batter will be stiff.
Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and spread it to fit the pan.
Arrange apple slices, overlapping, in 2 concentric circles to cover the batter.
In a small bowl, combine 3 tsp of sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle it over the apple slices.
Dot with 0.5 tsp of margarine.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Calories: 183; Fat: 2 g

Variations

Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.
Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, over the top before baking for added crunch.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake before serving for a decadent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the apples thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through properly.

- You can use a variety of apples in this recipe, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala, depending on your preference.

- For a sweeter cake, you can sprinkle a little extra sugar over the top before baking.

- Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Serving Suggestions

Dutch apple cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a successful Dutch apple cake is to arrange the apple slices in concentric circles on top of the batter. This not only creates a beautiful presentation but also ensures that the apples cook evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have margarine on hand, you can use butter as a substitute. You can also use whole eggs instead of egg whites if you prefer a richer cake.

Make Ahead Tips

Dutch apple cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Dutch apple cake on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation. You can also garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Dutch apple cake pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. You can also serve it with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Dutch apple cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Dutch apple cake contains approximately 183 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Dutch apple cake contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Dutch apple cake contains approximately 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Dutch apple cake contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Dutch apple cake is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the apples used in the recipe. It also contains small amounts of calcium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and eggs.

Summary

Dutch apple cake is a relatively low-calorie dessert that is a good source of carbohydrates and vitamin C. It is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Dutch apple cake is a classic dessert that is easy to make and sure to impress. With a light and fluffy cake base and sweet, tender apples on top, this recipe is a delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was handed down to me by my dear friend Maria, who learned it from her grandmother who was born in the Netherlands. The smell of cinnamon and apples wafted through the air as she prepared the cake, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Maria invited me over one afternoon to teach me the secrets of her family's Dutch apple cake recipe. As we gathered the ingredients and started baking, she shared stories of her grandmother and the traditions they held dear. I listened intently, eager to learn more about the history behind this delicious dessert.

The key to this recipe, Maria explained, was in the apples. They had to be crisp and tart, like Granny Smith or Braeburn, to balance out the sweetness of the cake. We peeled and sliced the apples, tossing them with lemon juice and sugar to bring out their natural flavors.

Next came the batter, a simple mixture of flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and baking powder. Maria showed me how to cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy, then gently fold in the dry ingredients. The scent of vanilla and nutmeg filled the kitchen as we worked, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Once the batter was ready, we layered it with the sliced apples in a greased baking dish. Maria sprinkled a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and butter on top, giving the cake a crispy and golden crust when baked. The aroma that filled the kitchen was irresistible, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product.

After an hour in the oven, the Dutch apple cake emerged golden brown and fragrant. Maria cut us each a generous slice, and we savored every bite. The apples were tender and sweet, while the cake was moist and flavorful. It was a perfect combination of textures and flavors, a true comfort food that warmed the soul.

As we enjoyed our dessert, Maria shared more memories of her grandmother and the times they spent baking together. She spoke of the love and care that went into every dish, the joy of sharing good food with family and friends. I felt a deep connection to her stories, understanding the importance of passing down recipes and traditions through the generations.

From that day on, Dutch apple cake became a staple in my recipe collection. I baked it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, sharing the love and memories that came with each slice. The recipe became a symbol of friendship and heritage, a reminder of the bond between Maria and me.

Over the years, I made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own touches and variations. I experimented with different types of apples, spices, and toppings, creating new versions of the classic Dutch apple cake. Each variation was a reflection of my own tastes and experiences, a personal twist on a beloved tradition.

As I grew older, I passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, teaching them the secrets of this timeless dessert. I shared stories of Maria and her grandmother, of the traditions and memories that shaped this recipe into something special. I watched with pride as they baked their own Dutch apple cakes, creating new memories and traditions of their own.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the scent of cinnamon and apples, I am reminded of the journey that brought me here. The first time I saw that recipe, I knew it was something special. And now, as I pass it down to the next generation, I know that it will continue to bring joy and comfort for years to come.