Caramelized Apple Sponge Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting ππ°
This delightful cake layers soft sponge, rich caramelized apples, and luscious cream cheese frosting, topped with crunchy roasted almonds. Perfect for celebrations or an indulgent afternoon treat!
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Apples
- 1kg apples, peeled and chopped
- 90g (6 tbsp) sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 10g (1 tbsp) cornstarch
For the Sponge Cake Dough
- 5 large eggs
- 130g (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp) sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 170g (1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 50g (1/5 cup) milk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 200g (1 cup) heavy cream (33% fat)
- 300g (1.3 cups) cream cheese
- 50g (1/4 cup) sugar
For the Topping
- 50g roasted flaked almonds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Caramelized Apples
- Prepare Apples: Peel and chop apples into small pieces.
- Caramelize: Heat sugar and lemon juice in a pan over medium heat until the sugar melts and begins to caramelize.
- Cook Apples: Add apples and stir to coat in caramel. Cook for 5β7 minutes until softened.
- Thicken: Dissolve cornstarch in a bit of water, then stir it into the apples to thicken the mixture. Let cool.
2. Prepare the Sponge Cake
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 356Β°F (180Β°C).
- Beat Eggs and Sugar: Whisk eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until pale and fluffy.
- Fold in Flour: Gently fold in flour, then stir in milk.
- Bake: Pour batter into a parchment-lined 32x37cm baking tray. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Whip Cream: Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Combine Cream Cheese: In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Fold Together: Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture until creamy. Chill in the fridge for 4 hours.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Layer Apples: Spread caramelized apples over the cooled sponge cake.
- Add Frosting: Spread the chilled cream cheese frosting evenly over the apples.
- Top with Almonds: Sprinkle roasted flaked almonds on top.
5. Serve
- Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with hot coffee, tea, or cider for a cozy dessert experience.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips
- Use cold cream and cream cheese for a firm frosting.
- Lightly toast the almonds for enhanced flavor and aroma.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before assembling to prevent the frosting from melting.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Provide fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Almonds: Add protein, healthy fats, and crunch.
Storage Information
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving.
This Caramelized Apple Sponge Cake is a delicious and impressive dessert thatβs sure to become a favorite. Enjoy its blend of fruity, creamy, and nutty flavors at your next gathering! π