This apple vanilla pudding cake is a delicious dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with a crumbly, buttery dough. The semolina in the apple filling gives it a delightful texture, and the powdered sugar dusting adds the perfect finishing touch. It’s a great treat for any occasion, whether served with a hot cup of tea or vanilla ice cream.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cuisine: Dessert, European
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 300 g (2 ½ cups) flour
- 100 g (½ cup) sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 150 g (⅔ cup) butter, softened
- 2 eggs
For the Apple Filling:
- 5-6 medium-sized apples (Golden Delicious or your favorite variety)
- 50 ml (¼ cup) water
- 50 g (¼ cup) butter
- 2 tbsp semolina (Manna)
- 3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and rub it into the dry ingredients using your hands until the mixture forms fine crumbs.
Beat the eggs in a small bowl and then add them to the flour mixture. Knead gently until a crumbly, sandy dough forms. Do not overmix.
Divide the dough into two equal portions and chill while you prepare the filling. -
Prepare the Apple Filling:
Peel, core, and dice the apples.
In a large saucepan, add the apples, water, and butter. Cook over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, or until the apples soften.
Stir in the semolina and sugar, mixing well.
Allow the mixture to cool completely before assembling. -
Assemble the Pie:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 25 cm (10-inch) baking dish with parchment paper.
Spread half of the crumbly dough evenly on the bottom of the baking dish and press it down to form a firm base with raised edges.
Add the cooled apple filling, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining crumbly dough over the apples, leaving small gaps to allow steam to escape. -
Bake the Pie:
Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. -
Final Touches & Serving:
Once cooled, dust the pie with powdered sugar. Slice and enjoy with a cup of tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutritional Information
- Serving size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 12%
- Vitamin C: 8%
- Calcium: 2%
- Iron: 4%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Apple desserts are a staple in many cultures, especially in European countries, where apples are abundant. This apple pudding cake is similar to traditional apple crumbles and pies, but the semolina in the filling adds a unique texture. The combination of soft baked apples and a crumbly dough has made this dessert popular for family gatherings, afternoon teas, and holiday celebrations.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Flavorful and Cozy: The apples, semolina, and sweet dough combine to create a warm, comforting dessert.
- Simple to Make: With a short list of ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is easy to prepare.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This apple vanilla pudding cake can be served as a casual dessert, for special occasions, or as an afternoon snack.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or add nuts or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.
Health Benefits
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: Apples provide vitamin C and antioxidants that promote immune health.
- Fiber: The apples and semolina offer a good amount of fiber, which supports digestive health.
- Calcium and Protein: The butter and eggs in the dough provide small amounts of calcium and protein.
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- With Vanilla Ice Cream: Warm slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
- With Caramel Sauce: Drizzle with caramel sauce for a richer, sweeter flavor.
- With Tea or Coffee: Pair the cake with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips
- Let the Pie Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure it holds its shape.
- Use a Variety of Apples: For a more complex flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Golden Delicious.
- For a Crunchier Topping: For a more textured topping, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the dough.
Variations to Try
- Add Cinnamon: Stir a teaspoon of cinnamon into the apple filling for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Add Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the dough for a crunchy texture.
- Gluten-Free Version: Replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Conclusion
This delightful apple vanilla pudding cake is the perfect dessert to enjoy on a chilly day. With its sweet apples, semolina filling, and crumbly dough, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or with a cup of tea, this cake is a comforting treat everyone will love.
10 Comprehensive FAQs
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Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, you can use other fruits like pears or berries in place of apples for a different flavor. -
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cake ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bake it when you’re ready to serve. -
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cake for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving. -
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or coconut oil. -
Can I use other sweeteners instead of sugar?
Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute if you prefer a different sweetener. -
Can I make this cake without semolina?
Yes, you can replace semolina with cornstarch or flour, but the texture may change slightly. -
How can I make the crust crunchier?
To make the crust crunchier, add a little more butter or sprinkle some oats on top before baking. -
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. -
Can I add spices to the filling?
Yes, you can add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to the apple filling for extra warmth and spice. -
Can I serve this cake cold?
Yes, this cake can be served cold, but it is best enjoyed warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Enjoy your apple vanilla pudding cake!