This Caramel Apple Walnut Cake with Meringue Topping is a perfect fall dessert that combines the sweetness of caramelized apples, the crunch of roasted walnuts, and the fluffy texture of meringue. The cake features a buttery dough base that supports a delicious apple and walnut filling, topped with a golden meringue that adds both texture and sweetness. This cake is ideal for any occasion and pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
The flavors of caramelized apples and roasted walnuts blend beautifully together, offering a balance of sweetness and crunch. The meringue topping adds an elegant touch and a light, airy finish to the cake. Let’s walk through how to make this mouthwatering treat!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 300g flour (2 cups)
- 30g sugar (2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 8g vanilla sugar (1 teaspoon)
- 150g cold butter (2/3 cup), cut into small pieces
- 1 egg
For the Filling:
- 5 medium-sized apples (850-900g), cored and cubed
- 120g sugar (1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 35g butter (1.5 tablespoons)
- 50g roasted walnuts, chopped
For the Meringue:
- 4 egg whites
- A pinch of salt
- 170g sugar (3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon)
- 30g almond flakes, for sprinkling (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a bowl, combine 300g flour, 30g sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 8g vanilla sugar.
- Add 150g cold butter, cut into small pieces, and use your hands to mix until you get a crumbly texture.
- Add 1 egg and mix until the dough starts to come together. If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of water to help it come together more easily.
- Press the dough evenly into a greased 24×24 cm baking pan. Make sure the dough is spread out evenly, covering the entire base.
- Use a fork to prick the dough all over, preventing it from puffing up during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Core and dice 5 medium-sized apples (about 850-900g).
- In a pan, melt 120g sugar and 2 tablespoons honey over medium heat. Stir until the sugar starts to caramelize and turn golden brown. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
- Once the sugar has caramelized, add 35g butter and stir for about 2 minutes until the butter melts and blends with the caramelized sugar.
- Add the diced apples to the pan and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and absorb the caramel syrup.
- Stir in 50g chopped roasted walnuts and cook for another minute to combine everything.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Spread the apple and walnut filling evenly over the prepared dough.
- Bake the cake for 20 minutes at 180°C, allowing the base and filling to cook through.
Step 4: Prepare the Meringue
- While the cake is baking, whisk the 4 egg whites with a pinch of salt in a clean bowl until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add 170g sugar and continue whisking until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat the meringue, as it could become too stiff and dry.
- Once the cake has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and gently spread the meringue over the apple filling.
Step 5: Final Bake
- Reduce the oven temperature to 160°C (320°F).
- Return the cake to the oven and bake for another 35-40 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Caramel Apple Walnut Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Pair the cake with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.
Cooking Tips
- Use Granny Smith or other tart apple varieties to create a balance with the sweet caramel filling.
- Don’t overbeat the meringue! Stop once stiff peaks form to avoid a dry, grainy texture.
- If the meringue starts to brown too quickly in the final bake, reduce the temperature slightly to ensure even baking.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spiced Apples: For an autumn twist, add cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling for added warmth and flavor.
- Nuts: Feel free to substitute the walnuts with other nuts such as pecans or hazelnuts if desired.
- Meringue Topping Alternatives: If you prefer a different topping, try using whipped cream or cream cheese frosting instead of meringue for a different texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use Fuji, Honeycrisp, or any apple variety you like. Just be aware that the sweetness of the apple will affect the overall flavor.
Q: How long will this cake last?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can refrigerate it for up to 5 days for longer storage.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cake can be made in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the rest of the ingredients, such as the meringue, are gluten-free as well.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 12 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 27g
- Protein: 5g
Conclusion
This Caramel Apple Walnut Cake with Meringue Topping is an indulgent yet balanced dessert that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or as a special treat for yourself. The combination of caramelized apples, roasted walnuts, and a fluffy meringue topping makes it a showstopper at any table. Whether served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, this cake is sure to impress. Give it a try, and you’ll find it to be a comforting favorite!