Apple Cream Cake

by
Delicious homemade Apple Cream Cake with fresh apples and creamy frosting

Apple Cream Cake is one of those delightful desserts that perfectly bridges the gap between a light cake and a rich cream pie. With its tender crumb and layers of luscious cream and slightly caramelized apples, every bite offers a comforting and homely taste. Imagine the warmth of fall, the scent of baking apples, and a dessert that invites friends and family to gather around the table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.

What You’ll Need for Apple Cream Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious dessert, broken down into manageable parts:

For the Cake Base:

  • 3 egg yolks
  • 30 grams (2 tablespoons) granulated sugar
  • 250 grams (2 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 90 grams (6 tablespoons) butter, softened

For the Cream Filling:

  • 3 egg whites
  • 30 grams (2 tablespoons) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla sugar
  • 30 grams (1/4 cup) cornstarch
  • 400 grams (1 3/4 cups) sour cream or natural yogurt

For the Apple Topping:

  • 3-4 medium apples
  • Butter for cooking (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 15 grams (1 tablespoon) cane sugar
  • Juice of 1 lemon

For the Crumble Topping:

  • 125 grams (1 cup) all-purpose flour
  • 60 grams (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
  • 75 grams (1/3 cup) cold butter, cubed
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For Serving:

  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Whipped cream

Step-by-Step Recipe for Apple Cream Cake

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get started on creating this beautiful cake!

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 180 degrees C (350 degrees F). Grease a 25 cm (10 inch) diameter springform pan with a little butter.

  2. Make the Cake Base:

    • Separate the egg yolks from the whites, keeping the whites for later.
    • In a medium bowl, beat the egg yolks with 30 grams of sugar until they become pale and fluffy.
    • In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
    • Add the softened butter to the egg yolk mixture and mix well. Gradually add the flour mixture until a soft dough forms.
    • Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a slight edge. You can set aside some dough for a top layer if you’d like.

  3. Prepare the Cream Filling:

    • In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add in 30 grams of sugar until the mixture is stiff and glossy.
    • Fold in the vanilla extract, then gently mix in the cornstarch and sour cream until fully combined.

  4. Sauté the Apples:

    • Peel, core, and slice the apples into wedges.
    • In a skillet, melt about 2 tablespoons of butter, then add the apple wedges along with the cane sugar and lemon juice. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened but still holding their shape. Remove from heat and let them cool.

  5. Assemble the Cake:

    • Spread the cream filling over the cake base.
    • Arrange the cooked apple slices on top of the cream layer.

  6. Make the Crumble Topping:

    • In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and optional cinnamon.
    • Use your fingers to work in the cold butter cubes until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Sprinkle this crumble over the apple layer.

  7. Bake:

    • Put the assembled cake into the oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
    • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then release the springform and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

How to Serve Apple Cream Cake

Serving this cake is simple and delightful! Once cooled, slice your Apple Cream Cake into pieces and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for added richness. For an extra touch, you can serve it warm, making the cream filling even more decadent. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee to enhance the flavors further, and watch as family and friends gather around to enjoy every slice.

Expert Tips for Apple Cream Cake

  • Choose Your Apples Carefully: A mix of tart and sweet apples works wonders for adding complexity to the flavor.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a touch of nutmeg or use flavored yogurt in the cream filling to switch things up.
  • Make Ahead: This cake keeps well in the fridge for a few days. Savoring it the next day allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Apple Cream Cake FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Mixing tart apples like Granny Smith with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp can create a delicious balance.

How can I store leftover cake?

Store your leftover Apple Cream Cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to three days. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to preserve its freshness. Enjoy within a month for the best flavor.

Every bite of this Apple Cream Cake is a little slice of heaven that celebrates the wonderful flavors of apples and cream. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—a tasty treat awaits! Enjoy sharing it with family and friends!