Experience the charm of traditional Turkish baking with this delightful Apple Cake, enriched with the fresh zest of lemon and the sweet tang of berry jam. This cake features thinly sliced apples and a light, airy sponge, making it a perfect dessert for any season. Infused with vanilla and lemon, and enhanced with a dust of powdered sugar, this cake is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Why You'll Love This:
This Apple Cake combines simple ingredients to create a dessert that's both rustic and elegant. The inclusion of fresh apples ensures a moist texture, while the berry jam adds a layer of flavor that complements the fruitiness of the apples beautifully. It's an excellent way to make use of seasonal fruits and impress your guests with a dessert that is both traditional and innovative.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for afternoon tea, family gatherings, or as a festive dessert during the holidays, this apple cake is versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Serve it at a casual brunch or as a sophisticated treat at a dinner party. It's also a wonderful addition to a bake sale or a comforting treat to enjoy on a lazy weekend.
Decoration Tips:
For a beautiful presentation, arrange extra thin apple slices on top of the cake before baking to create a decorative pattern. Once baked and slightly cooled, sift powdered sugar over the top for a snowy effect. If serving at a special event, garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium apples
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sugar (less one finger)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 packet baking powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Berry jam (cherry can also be used)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples:
- Peel the apples and slice them thinly. Toss with 2 tablespoons of sugar and set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until frothy. Add the oil, lemon zest, milk, and vanilla, continuing to whisk until well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually sift in the flour and baking powder, mixing until just combined to maintain a light batter.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Fold the apple slices gently into the batter. Pour the mixture into a baking pan lined with parchment paper. Dot with teaspoons of berry jam and arrange additional apple slices on top.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (338°F). Bake the cake for about 45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Oven times may vary, so the toothpick test is crucial.
- Finish and Serve:
- Let the cake cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy this classic Turkish Apple Cake, a delightful treat that combines the homely comfort of apples with the sophisticated flavors of berry jam and lemon, perfect for any occasion!