Layered Apple and Cheese Cake with Meringue Topping
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 240 g (1.5 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 8 g (1 tsp) vanilla sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 30 g (2 tbsp) sugar
- 70 g (1/3 cup) softened butter
- 100 g (1/2 cup) sour cream
For the Apple Layer
- 3 apples, peeled and chopped
- 50 g (1/4 cup) sugar
- 35 g (1.5 tbsp) butter
For the Cheese Mixture
- 360 g (1.5 cups) cream cheese
- 150 g (3/4 cup) sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 30 g (3 tbsp) cornstarch
For the Meringue
- 5 egg whites
- 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 30 g flaked almonds
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
a. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Line a 24 cm (9.5-inch) baking pan with baking paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
b. Mix the Dough Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine 240 g flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 8 g vanilla sugar. Add 2 egg yolks, 30 g sugar, 70 g softened butter, and 100 g sour cream. Mix everything together until a smooth dough forms.
c. Press the Dough:
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, ensuring it covers the entire base. Set the pan aside while you prepare the apple layer.
2. Prepare the Apple Layer
a. Cook the Apples:
In a skillet, melt 35 g butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and 50 g sugar, stirring occasionally. Cook until the apples are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
b. Layer the Apples:
Let the apples cool slightly, then spread them evenly over the dough in the baking pan.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
a. Combine the Cheese Mixture Ingredients:
In a bowl, beat together 360 g cream cheese, 150 g sugar, 3 egg yolks, and 30 g cornstarch until smooth and well combined.
b. Spread the Cheese Mixture:
Pour the cheese mixture over the apple layer in the baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
4. Bake the Cake
a. Initial Bake:
Bake the assembled cake in the preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 40 minutes or until the cheese layer is set and lightly golden. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
5. Prepare the Meringue
a. Beat the Egg Whites:
In a clean bowl, beat 5 egg whites with 2 tbsp lemon juice until soft peaks form. Gradually add 100 g sugar, a little at a time, and continue beating until the meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form.
b. Spread the Meringue:
Spread the meringue evenly over the cooled cheese layer, making decorative swirls with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle with 30 g flaked almonds for a crunchy finish.
6. Bake the Meringue
a. Final Bake:
Return the cake to the oven and bake at 180°C (356°F) for another 20 minutes or until the meringue is golden and crispy on the outside.
7. Serve the Cake
a. Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Dust with icing sugar if desired for an extra touch of elegance. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience.
Tips for the Perfect Layered Apple and Cheese Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth and lump-free consistency.
- Watch the Meringue: Keep an eye on the meringue during the final bake to prevent it from over-browning. It should be lightly golden with a crisp exterior.
- Slice with a Hot Knife: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting through the cake.