Classic Apple Cake

For the Apple Filling:

• • 5 medium apples (670g, approx. 3 cups, sliced)

• • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (40g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cake Batter:

• • 5 tablespoons butter (100g, softened)
  • Pinch of salt

• • 5 tablespoons granulated sugar (100g)
  • 8g vanilla sugar (approx. 1 1/2 teaspoons)
  • 2 medium eggs (each 63g)

• • 4g baking powder (approx. 1 teaspoon)
  • 400g all-purpose flour (approx. 3 1/4 cups)
  • 1 egg yolk (for brushing)

• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
   • • Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. The number of slices will depend on the size of the apples, but you want to end up with about 3 cups of sliced apples.
   • In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with the lemon juice, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Toss everything together gently to ensure the apples are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit while you prepare the cake batter, allowing the flavors to meld together and the apples to release some of their juice.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
   • • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a round 9-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
   • • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step usually takes about 3-5 minutes, so be patient—it will ensure a light, airy texture in your cake.
     • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated before adding the next one.
     • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
   • Once the batter is smooth and well-combined, it’s time to layer it with the apples.
   • • Spoon half of the apple filling over the batter, spreading the apples evenly across the surface.
     • Add the remaining cake batter on top of the apples, smoothing it out carefully. Don’t worry if some apples peek through the batter—that’s part of the charm.
     • Finally, add the rest of the apples on top of the cake batter, gently pressing them into the batter. This will create the signature apple layer that makes this cake so irresistible.
     • Assemble the Cake:
       • • Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.

3. Bake the Cake:
   • • Brush the top of the cake with the egg yolk for a glossy, golden finish. This step is optional, but it adds a beautiful shine to the cake.
     • Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden brown, and the apples should be tender.
   • Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
   • • Once the cake has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Serve slices of the cake as-is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
   • This apple cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon snack or a comforting dessert to end a meal.