The Apple and Ricotta Cake | Lose Weight Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious yet light dessert idea that can help you on your journey to lose weight, then The Apple and Ricotta Cake is perfect for you! This delightful cake brings together the fruity goodness of Golden apples and the creamy texture of ricotta cheese, making it not only tasty but also a guilt-free treat. It’s moist, flavorful, and ideal for those who want to enjoy something sweet without compromising their health goals.
What You’ll Need for The Apple and Ricotta Cake
To whip up this scrumptious cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 250 g fresh cow’s ricotta cheese
- 3 Golden apples (about 600 g), washed and thinly sliced
- 3 medium eggs (165 g)
- 180 g granulated sugar
- 250 g all-purpose flour
- 16 g baking powder (1 packet)
- 5 g ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
- Zest of 1 organic lemon
- 60 ml sunflower oil
- 2 g fine salt
- 30 g powdered sugar for decoration
Step-by-Step Apple and Ricotta Cake Recipe
Follow these clear steps to create your very own Apple and Ricotta Cake:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 24 cm round cake pan with parchment paper.
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Prep the Lemon: Wash and dry the lemon, and then grate its zest finely.
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Slice the Apples: Wash the apples, peel them, and slice them thinly into 2-3 mm slices.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
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Whisk the Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use electric beaters to whisk the eggs with the granulated sugar for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is light and frothy.
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Incorporate Ricotta: Gradually add the sifted ricotta cheese and mix until fully incorporated.
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Add Oil: Drizzle the sunflower oil into the mixture while stirring continuously.
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Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gently fold in the dry ingredients in three additions, mixing from the bottom up to keep the mixture light.
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Add Lemon Zest and Salt: Mix in the grated lemon zest and a pinch of salt until an even batter forms.
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Layer the Cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan. Arrange half of the apple slices on top in a circle, starting from the edge.
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Finish Layering: Spread the remaining batter over the apples and decorate the top with the remaining apple slices.
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Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick; it should come out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar.
How to Serve The Apple and Ricotta Cake
This cake is best served at room temperature. Slice it into wedges and enjoy it as a light dessert or with your afternoon tea. Pair it with a dollop of plain yogurt or whipped cream for an extra special touch. You can also serve it alongside fresh berries for added freshness and color!
Expert Tips for The Apple and Ricotta Cake
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Substitute Sweeteners: If you’re really focused on healthy eating to lose weight, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or a sugar alternative to lower the calorie intake.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or even a dash of vanilla extract to elevate the flavor profile of your cake.
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Fruit Variations: This recipe can also work well with other fruits like pears or peaches, so feel free to experiment based on what’s in season!
Apple and Ricotta Cake: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! This cake can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. It even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together!
2. Is this cake gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the baking powder accordingly for the best results.
3. How can I adapt this recipe for a lower sugar option?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe by half and still achieve a delicious cake. Alternatively, using a sugar substitute can also help keep it sweet without the added calories.
Enjoy making The Apple and Ricotta Cake! It’s a delightful and friendly choice for anyone looking to lose weight without sacrificing flavor. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this lovely dessert!