This Apple and Almond Cake with Dried Cherries is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of sweet apples, crunchy almonds, and chewy dried cherries, all wrapped in a light, moist cake. The cake is topped with caramelized apples and a sprinkle of almond flakes and dried cherries, creating an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served for a cozy afternoon tea or as a sweet ending to a meal, this cake is sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 eggs
- 150g (¾ cup) sugar
- A pinch of vanilla
- 120 ml (½ cup) oil
- 240 ml (1 cup) milk
- 300g (2 cups) flour
- 15g (about 1 tablespoon) baking powder
- 3 medium-sized apples, chopped
- Grated peel of 1 lemon
For the Topping:
- 1 medium-sized apple, chopped
- 20g (about 1 tablespoon) butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for topping)
- Almond flakes, to taste (for sprinkling)
- Dried cherries, to taste (for sprinkling)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 24 cm (9.5 inches) round baking dish with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, 150g of sugar, and a pinch of vanilla until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale.
Next, add 120 ml of oil and 240 ml of milk to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
Sift in the 300g of flour and 15g of baking powder, then mix everything together until smooth and fully incorporated.
Once the batter is ready, fold in the grated lemon peel and 3 chopped apples. The lemon peel adds a lovely citrusy freshness that complements the sweetness of the apples.
Step 3: Pour the Batter into the Baking Dish
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure the surface is smooth. This will ensure an even rise and a consistent texture throughout the cake.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a small pan, melt 20g of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the 1 chopped apple and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Sauté the apple for about 5 minutes, or until it softens and caramelizes slightly. This step will create a sweet and fragrant topping that will melt into the cake as it bakes.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Carefully arrange the caramelized apple slices on top of the batter in the baking dish. You can arrange the slices in a decorative pattern or scatter them evenly for a more rustic look.
Next, sprinkle almond flakes and dried cherries over the top. The almonds will toast as the cake bakes, adding a delightful crunch, while the dried cherries will provide a chewy, fruity contrast.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Start checking the cake after 40 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If the top begins to brown too much before the center is fully baked, cover the cake loosely with foil and continue baking.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. After it has cooled slightly, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice the cake once it has cooled to allow the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up.
Serving Suggestions
This Apple and Almond Cake with Dried Cherries is versatile and can be served in many ways:
- Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the sweet cake.
- Tea or Coffee: Pair the cake with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a relaxing afternoon treat.
- Powdered Sugar: Dust the cake with a little powdered sugar just before serving for a festive touch that enhances its visual appeal.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: For extra sweetness, drizzle the cake with honey or maple syrup.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, to add a light and fruity contrast to the richness of the cake.
Cooking Tips
- Sifting the Dry Ingredients: Make sure to sift the flour and baking powder before adding them to the wet ingredients. This will help prevent lumps and ensure a light, fluffy texture in the cake.
- Grating the Lemon Peel: Grate the lemon peel finely to ensure that the lemon flavor is evenly distributed throughout the cake.
- Sweetness: If your apples are very sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the topping slightly to balance the overall sweetness of the cake.
- Toothpick Test: Check the cake after 40 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Be careful not to overbake the cake, as it may become dry.
- Cooling: Let the cake cool before slicing it to allow the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up, making it easier to cut neat slices.
Nutritional Benefits
This cake is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Apples: Apples are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which can help with digestion and overall health.
- Almonds: Almonds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and magnesium, which support heart health and provide sustained energy.
- Lemon: The addition of lemon peel boosts the cake with vitamin C, which supports the immune system and adds a refreshing citrus flavor to balance the sweetness of the apples.
Dietary Information
This cake can be modified to suit different dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free Option: To make this cake dairy-free, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like margarine or coconut oil.
- Nut-Free Option: If you have a nut allergy, you can omit the almond flakes and use sunflower seeds or another seed for a crunchy topping, or skip the topping altogether.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage
This cake is perfect for making ahead or storing for later:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps it fresh and moist.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 4 days. Be sure to bring the cake to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving for the best taste and texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze individual slices of the cake for up to 1 month. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices at room temperature and serve.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fruit in the cake?
Yes, you can substitute the apples with other fruits like pears, plums, or even berries. Keep in mind that different fruits may have varying moisture content, so adjust the amount of flour if necessary.
Can I skip the caramelized apple topping?
If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the caramelized apple topping, although it adds extra flavor and texture to the cake. You could sprinkle some sugar on top before baking to create a simple sugary crust instead.
How can I make the cake sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the sugar in the batter or add an extra layer of sweetness with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup after baking.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake keeps well for several days and can be made ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for future enjoyment.
Conclusion
This Apple and Almond Cake with Dried Cherries is a wonderfully flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh apples, crunchy almonds, and chewy dried cherries makes for a cake that’s both satisfying and nutritious. With easy-to-follow steps and plenty of opportunities for customization, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served warm or at room temperature, with whipped cream or a cup of tea, it’s a treat that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy!