This Apple Almond Cake is a delightful, moist dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of apples with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds. The cake is soft, flavorful, and topped with a subtle apricot glaze that gives it a beautiful finish. Whether you’re enjoying it with coffee or as a light dessert after dinner, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Let’s dive into this easy and scrumptious recipe!
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 45 minutes
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Cuisine: European (Perfect for dessert or a sweet snack)
Full List of Ingredients
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1 egg
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75g sugar
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8g vanilla sugar
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A pinch of salt
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60ml oil (vegetable or sunflower)
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125g yogurt
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140g flour
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7g baking powder
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1 apple, thinly sliced
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Juice of 1/2 lemon
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Almond flakes (for topping)
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Apricot jam (for glazing)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Cake Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round or square cake pan with butter and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking. -
Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, beat the egg, sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the oil and yogurt to the bowl, then mix until smooth and well combined.
Sift in the flour and baking powder, and gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is well combined. -
Add the Apple and Fill the Cake Pan
Thinly slice the apple and drizzle with lemon juice to prevent browning. Gently fold half of the apple slices into the cake batter, ensuring an even distribution throughout.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. -
Top with Almond Flakes
Arrange the remaining apple slices on top of the cake batter in a decorative pattern. Sprinkle the almond flakes over the top of the cake for a crunchy, nutty finish. -
Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. -
Glaze and Serve
While the cake is baking, heat the apricot jam in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes liquid.
After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Brush the warm apricot jam over the top of the cake for a glossy finish. If desired, dust with a little fine sugar before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 220
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Fat: 10g
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Protein: 4g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugars: 16g
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Sodium: 120mg
Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The combination of apples and almonds is widely appreciated in European baking, particularly in countries like Germany and France, where almond-based cakes are common. This Apple Almond Cake takes inspiration from the classic apple cakes that have been passed down through generations. The use of yogurt makes it moist and tender, while the apples and almonds provide the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. This cake is particularly popular for afternoon tea, dessert, or even as a breakfast treat.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Moist and Flavorful: The yogurt in the cake makes it extra moist, while the apples and almonds bring a lovely balance of flavor.
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Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
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Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a special event, or a casual coffee break, this cake fits perfectly.
Health Benefits
This cake has several health benefits, especially if made with natural ingredients. Apples provide fiber and antioxidants, which are great for digestive health. The almonds add a healthy dose of protein and unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, yogurt contributes to gut health by providing probiotics. While this cake is a treat, it contains relatively wholesome ingredients compared to more indulgent desserts.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with Tea or Coffee: This cake is perfect with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a great addition to any afternoon gathering.
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Pair with Fresh Fruit: For a light dessert, serve the cake with a side of fresh berries or a fruit salad.
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Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips
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Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so make sure to check the cake with a toothpick about 25 minutes in. If it comes out clean, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
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Prevent Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense. Mix just until everything is combined.
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Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples work best for this recipe to give the cake that delicious, juicy flavor.
Variations to Try
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Add Cinnamon: For a warm, cozy twist, add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
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Use Other Fruits: If you prefer, substitute the apple with pears, peaches, or berries for a different fruit flavor.
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Make It Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flax mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), and use dairy-free yogurt.
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Add Chocolate Chips: For a decadent variation, add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter for a rich flavor.
Conclusion
This Apple Almond Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Its moist texture, delicious flavors, and light sweetness make it a hit at any gathering. Whether you serve it with tea, coffee, or as an after-dinner treat, it’s sure to impress your guests. Simple yet elegant, this cake is a must-try for anyone who loves the combination of apples and almonds.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use a different type of fruit in this recipe?
Yes, you can replace apples with pears, peaches, or even berries. The flavor will change, but the cake will still be delicious.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. Just make sure the baking powder you use is also gluten-free.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 5 days for a slightly firmer texture.
4. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
5. Can I add nuts to the cake?
Absolutely! You can add chopped walnuts, pecans, or even more almond flakes to the batter for extra crunch and flavor.
6. How do I make this cake dairy-free?
To make this cake dairy-free, use a dairy-free yogurt substitute and replace the egg with a flax egg.
7. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time and stored for up to 3 days at room temperature. It also works well when frozen.
8. Can I skip the apricot glaze?
Yes, you can skip the apricot glaze if you prefer a less sweet cake, or you can substitute it with a simple powdered sugar glaze.
9. What can I serve this cake with?
This cake pairs wonderfully with tea, coffee, or a glass of dessert wine. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
10. Can I use store-bought apple slices for this cake?
While fresh apples are recommended for the best flavor, you can use store-bought slices if you’re in a pinch, but be sure to drain any excess liquid before adding them to the cake.