Indulge in the exquisite blend of tart apples and smooth vanilla custard with this Apple Cake, a dessert that combines traditional baking elements with a twist of cocoa for an enhanced taste experience. The cake features a crumbly, cocoa-infused shortcrust base, topped with layers of thinly sliced apples and a rich vanilla custard, all sprinkled with almond flakes for a nutty finish. It's a perfect harmony of flavors that's sure to delight any palate.
Why You'll Love This:
This cake is a celebration of contrasts – the buttery base with a hint of cocoa, the freshness of the apples, and the creaminess of the vanilla custard create a multi-dimensional taste profile. The addition of almond flakes adds a delightful crunch, offering a contrast in textures that makes each bite interesting. It's an ideal treat for those who appreciate the intricate balance of sweet and tart, as well as the comforting warmth of vanilla.
Perfect Occasion:
This Apple Cake with Vanilla Custard is perfect for autumn gatherings, where its warm flavors can truly shine. It's a sophisticated addition to any tea party, a comforting dessert for a family dinner, or a splendid finale to a festive meal. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and neighbors, symbolizing warmth and care.
Decoration Tips:
For an elegant presentation, arrange the apple slices in concentric circles on the custard before baking. After baking, dust lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for added sweetness and visual appeal. A few fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance the cake's appearance and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 150g flour
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 100g sugar
- 3 eggs
- 75g cold butter
- 3 apples
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 packet vanilla custard powder
- 125g cream
- 200g sour cream
- 100g almond flakes
Instructions:
- Combine flour, salt, cocoa, 40g sugar, 1 egg, and butter in flakes to form a smooth shortcrust dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Grease a 24cm springform pan with butter and dust with flour.
- Spread the dough in the pan, pressing firmly and forming a 2-3cm edge around. Chill the pan while preparing the filling.
- Wash, quarter, and core the apples. Slice the apple quarters into thin wedges. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Place apple slices in a bowl of water mixed with lemon juice. Mix the custard powder, cream, sour cream, 50g sugar, and remaining eggs. Drain the apple slices and arrange them in a circular pattern on the dough.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the apples. Sprinkle with almond flakes and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven on the middle rack for about 45 minutes. Remove and let cool on a wire rack.
Enjoy this Apple Cake with Vanilla Custard, where the cozy warmth of vanilla meets the crisp freshness of apples in a delightful dance of flavors and textures.