Imagine the delightful aroma of baked fruit wafting through your kitchen; it’s a warm hug in the form of dessert! If you’re looking for a treat that combines the natural sweetness of fresh apples and pears with a moist, chocolate-infused cake, you’re in for a treat with this beautiful apple and pear cake. It’s perfect for afternoon tea or a cozy family gathering. Plus, who can resist a cake that’s as delicious as it is satisfying? Let’s dive in and discover how to make this scrumptious treat!
What You’ll Need for Apple and Pear Cake
To whip up this delightful dessert, gather the following ingredients:
- 200 g flour (1 ⅔ cups)
- 180 g sugar (¾ cup)
- 200 ml fresh cream (¾ cup)
- 4 eggs (2 whole eggs plus 2 egg whites)
- 70 g dark chocolate or chocolate chips (½ cup)
- 1/2 sachet baking powder (8 g)
- 2 apples (peeled and diced)
- 1 pear (peeled and diced)
Step-by-Step Apple and Pear Cake Recipe
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Preheat your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180 degrees C (355 degrees F) to get it nice and hot for baking.
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Prepare the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the two whole eggs and the two egg whites together with the sugar. Use electric whisks and mix at maximum speed until the mixture becomes light and frothy. This will take about 10 minutes.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Once fluffy, carefully remove the bowl from the whisks. Gently fold in the sifted flour and baking powder. Alternate this with the fresh cream, using delicate movements from the bottom to the top to maintain the airiness.
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Incorporate Fruits and Chocolate: Now it’s time to add the diced apple and pear plus the chocolate chips to your batter. Fold everything in gently to ensure even distribution without losing the fluffiness.
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Prepare the Cake Pan: Line a 24 cm (9.5-inch) cake pan with wet and squeezed parchment paper. This helps the cake come out easily after baking.
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Pour and Decorate: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. For an extra special touch, decorate the top with thinly sliced apple pieces.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. To check for doneness, do the trusty toothpick test; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!
How to Serve Apple and Pear Cake
Serving this delicious apple and pear cake is as enjoyable as baking it! Here’s how to present it perfectly:
- Slice it Up: Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice the cake into generous portions.
- Plating: Serve each slice on a beautiful plate. You can dust the top with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
- Pair with Delight: This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Add a cup of tea or coffee, and you have a lovely afternoon treat!
Expert Tips for Apple and Pear Cake
- Choose Ripe Fruits: Use ripe but firm apples and pears for the best flavor and texture. Granny Smith and Bosc pears work particularly well!
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.
- Add Spices: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Apple and Pear Cake FAQs
Can I use different fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like peaches or plums for a twist on this recipe.
How can I tell when the cake is done?
Use the toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean, it’s done. If there’s batter on it, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake stays moist and delicious for a couple of days, making it perfect for preparing in advance!
Don’t wait too long to try your hand at making this apple and pear cake! It’s a delightful dessert that will surely please anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Happy baking!