Category: healthy food

Caramelized Apple Cinnamon Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt

• • 1 tsp cinnamon powder
  • ½ cup white sugar
  • ¾ cup dark brown sugar

• • ½ cup canola oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ cup evaporated milk
• ½ tbsp vinegar

For the Caramelized Apples:

• • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
  • 2 tbsp white sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon powder

Directions:

Caramelized Apples:

1. 1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

1. Add the peeled and diced apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Cake Batter:

1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan.

1. 1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon powder.
   2. In a separate large bowl, whisk the white sugar, dark brown sugar, and canola oil together until smooth.
   3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

1. 1. In a small bowl, combine the evaporated milk and vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
   2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the evaporated milk mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
   3. Fold the caramelized apples into the batter gently.

Bake the Cake:

1. 1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
   2. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

• • Dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
  • Enjoy with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea.
  • Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
    

    History and Origins:

    The combination of apples and cinnamon is a classic in many cultures, particularly in European and American desserts. Apples, especially in the form of caramelized slices or chunks, have been popular in cakes and pastries for centuries, often associated with fall and harvest seasons. The addition of cinnamon elevates the flavor profile, offering a spicy-sweet balance. Caramelized Apple Cinnamon Cake is a modern variation inspired by rustic apple cakes, drawing influence from traditional apple pies and tarts.

     

    Key Ingredients:

    • • Apples: Typically, tart apples like Granny Smith are used, as their flavor holds up well to the sweetness of caramelization and the richness of the cake.
      • Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the dish, which complements the apples perfectly.
      • Sugar (for caramelization): White or brown sugar is typically used to caramelize the apples, creating a golden, sweet glaze.

     

    • Butter: Provides richness to both the cake and the caramelization process.
    • Flour, Baking Powder, Eggs, and Milk: Common cake ingredients that form the base of the cake, providing structure and lightness.

Cooking Tips:

• • Ensure the apples are well-caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.
  • You can use a mix of different apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a balance of tart and sweet.
  • If you prefer a moister cake, add a tablespoon of applesauce to the batter.

• For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and vegan butter.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Apples: Provide fiber and vitamin C, which support digestion and boost immunity.

• • Cinnamon: Has antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
  • Canola Oil: A good source of healthy fats and low in saturated fat.
  • Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein and essential vitamins.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
  • Nut-Free: Contains no nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute evaporated milk with almond or coconut milk, and butter with a dairy-free alternative.

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Lower Sugar Option: Reduce sugar by using sugar substitutes like coconut sugar or stevia.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 12 servings):

• • Calories: 280 kcal

• • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 12g

• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 29g

Storage:

• • Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Fridge: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Quick 3-Minute Apple Cake

Ingredients:

• • 2 large eggs
  • A pinch of salt
  • 4 tablespoons sugar

• • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 50 grams (3.5 tablespoons) melted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 3 apples, finely chopped
  • Optional: walnuts, chopped (for added crunch)

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare the Batter:
      • • In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, a pinch of salt, and 4 tablespoons of sugar until well combined.
        • Add the zest of one lemon and the melted butter, then mix thoroughly.

       

      • Sift in the flour and baking powder, stirring until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
   2. Prepare the Apples:
      • • Peel and finely chop the 3 apples into small pieces. Add the apple pieces to the batter, folding them in gently.

       

      • If using, fold in some chopped walnuts for extra texture.
   3. Bake the Cake:
      • • Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) with both upper and lower heat.

       

      • Pour the batter into a greased or lined cake pan and smooth out the top.
      • Bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this delicious apple cake as a quick and easy dessert!

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a classic finish.
  • Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.

• Drizzle with caramel sauce for a rich, sweet topping.
• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt.

Cooking Tips:

• • Make sure to chop the apples into small pieces for even distribution throughout the cake.
  • Use fresh lemon zest to add a bright, citrusy flavor to the batter.
  • If you like a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to complement the apples.

• Let the cake cool slightly before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
• To avoid over-baking, start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • High in fiber from the apples, aiding in digestion and keeping you full.
  • Low in sugar compared to other cakes, making it a healthier dessert option.
  • Good source of protein from the eggs, supporting muscle repair and growth.

• Rich in antioxidants from the apples and lemon zest, promoting overall health.
• Contains healthy fats from the walnuts (if added), which are good for heart health.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian-friendly
  • Low in sugar
  • Rich in fiber

• No artificial additives or preservatives
• Contains healthy fats (if walnuts are added)

Puff Pastry with Custard Cream and Whipped Cream

Ingredients:

For the Puff Pastry:

• • 75g (2.5 oz, ~⅔ cup) flour

• • 130ml (~½ cup) water
  • Pinch of salt
  • 50g (1.8 oz, ~¼ cup) butter

• 2 large eggs

For the Custard Cream:

• • 2 egg yolks

• • 200ml (~¾ cup) milk
  • 40g (1.4 oz, ~3 tbsp) sugar
  • 20g (0.7 oz, ~2 tbsp) flour

For the Whipped Cream:

• • 150ml (~⅔ cup) heavy cream
  • 15g (0.5 oz, 1 tbsp) sugar

Directions:

Making the Puff Pastry:

1. 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
   2. In a saucepan, bring the water, butter, and a pinch of salt to a boil.

1. 1. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir continuously until the mixture forms a dough and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
   2. Remove from the heat and let the dough cool slightly. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth.
   3. Shape the dough into your desired size and place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

1. Baking the puff pastry: Bake at 200°C (392°F) for 10 minutes, then lower the temperature to 180°C (356°F) and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Finally, reduce the heat to 160°C (320°F) and bake for 10 more minutes, for a total of 40 minutes of baking.
2. Remove the puff pastry from the oven and allow it to cool.

Making the Custard Cream:

1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and flour until smooth.
   2. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam. Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
   3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens.

1. Remove from heat, transfer to a bowl, and cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool.

Making the Whipped Cream:

1. 1. In a chilled bowl, whisk the heavy cream and sugar together until soft peaks form.

1. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Assembling the Pastry:

1. 1. Slice the puff pastry in half horizontally to create a top and bottom layer.

1. 1. Spread the cooled custard cream over the bottom layer of the pastry.
   2. Top the custard with a generous layer of whipped cream.
   3. Place the top layer of the puff pastry over the cream layers.

1. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
  • Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

• • Pair with fresh berries for a burst of freshness.
  • Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
  • Enjoy as a light dessert after dinner.

Cooking Tips:

• • Let the puff pastry cool completely before adding the custard and whipped cream to prevent the cream from melting.
  • If you want a thicker custard, cook it a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • You can use a piping bag to neatly spread the custard and whipped cream for a polished look.

• If you don’t have cake flour, all-purpose flour works fine as a substitute.
• Ensure the whipped cream is cold and fresh for the fluffiest results.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.

• • Milk: Rich in calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health.
  • Butter: Adds richness and flavor while providing healthy fats in moderation.
  • Flour: A good source of carbohydrates for energy.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
  • Nut-Free: Contains no nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut or almond milk and dairy-free butter.

Nutrition