Apple Cake with Pastry Cream is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with a rich, creamy layer of pastry cream. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The mix of flavors and textures—from the moist apple cake to the smooth pastry cream—makes this cake a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to the table.
What You’ll Need for Apple Cake with Pastry Cream
To make this delicious apple cake, here’s what you’ll need:
- 125 ml (about ½ cup) kefir with walnuts and oat flakes
- 250 grams (2 cups) all-purpose flour (Type 00)
- 120 grams (½ cup) sugar
- 2 whole eggs
- 2 apples, peeled and cut into very small dice
- 1 packet (about 10 grams) baking powder
- 60 ml (¼ cup) seed oil
- 250 ml (1 cup) milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sugar for the pastry cream
Step-by-Step Apple Cake Recipe
Follow these easy steps to create your scrumptious apple cake:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Line the bottom of a 22 cm (about 9-inch) springform pan with parchment paper and lightly butter and flour the sides.
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Prepare the Apples: Wash and dry the apples. Peel them, remove the cores, and cut them into tiny cubes.
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Make the Pastry Cream: In a small pot, mix the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch with a wooden spoon until well combined. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Heat over low flame, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool.
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Prepare the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the whole eggs and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the seed oil and kefir, mixing until smooth.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour and baking powder into the egg mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
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Layer the Ingredients: Pour half of the batter into the prepared springform pan. Evenly distribute the diced apples over this layer, then cover with the remaining batter.
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Pipe the Pastry Cream: Transfer the cooled pastry cream into a piping bag and create a spiral design on top of the cake batter.
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Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the cake.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the cake cool for a few minutes before carefully removing it from the springform pan. Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve Apple Cake
Once your apple cake is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! Slice the cake into wedges and serve it warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, sprinkle some cinnamon on top for added warmth and spice.
Expert Tips for Apple Cake
- Apple Choice: Choose apples that hold their shape when baked, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for a perfect texture.
- Kefir Substitute: If you can’t find kefir with walnuts and oat flakes, plain kefir or yogurt will work just fine.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This cake tastes even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions about Apple Cake
Q: Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Pears or berries can be great alternatives to apples, giving the cake a unique twist.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Just ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean when it’s fully baked. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.
Apple Cake with Pastry Cream is not only simple to prepare but also brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. It’s an inviting dessert that will surely please everyone at the table. So gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this delightful treat!