Easy Apple Cake – Sharlotka

Easy Apple Cake (Sharlotka) is a simple, flavorful dessert made with fresh Granny Smith apples, eggs, and basic pantry ingredients. This Russian-style cake features a light, airy texture and a golden-brown crust. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is quick to make and requires minimal preparation. It’s a great choice for baking beginners and experienced home bakers alike. Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a delicious finish. This easy apple cake recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (measured correctly)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 lbs (3 medium/large) Granny Smith apples
• 1 tsp confectioners (powdered) sugar, optional for dusting

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Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, but do not grease the pan.
2. Beat the Eggs
   In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, add the 6 eggs and beat on high speed for about 1 minute until foamy. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar while continuing to beat on high for 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick and forms a ribbon when lifted.
3. Prepare the Apples
   While the eggs are being beaten, peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick pieces.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 1/3 cups of flour and 1/2 tsp of baking powder. Sift the flour mixture into the egg mixture in 3 increments, folding gently with a spatula between each addition to avoid deflating the batter. Scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl to incorporate any flour pockets. Do not over-mix.
5. Add Vanilla & Apples
   Quickly fold in 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Then, gently fold in the sliced apples, reserving 1 cup of apple slices for the topping. Be careful not to over-mix.
6. Assemble the Cake
   Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula (do not tap the pan). Scatter the remaining apple slices on top.
7. Bake the Cake
   Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
8. Cool the Cake
   Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to rest in the pan for 15 minutes. Run a thin spatula or knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake, then transfer it to a cake platter to cool to room temperature.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar
   Before serving, dust the cake with powdered sugar, if desired.

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Tips:

• Room Temperature Eggs: Be sure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal volume and texture when beating.
• Don’t Over-Mix: Over-mixing can result in a dense cake. Fold in the flour and apples gently.
• Use a Springform Pan: A springform pan makes it easier to remove the cake without it sticking or breaking apart.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Different Fruits: Substitute Granny Smith apples with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji apples.
• Spices: Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for a gluten-free option.
• Dairy-Free: If you’d like a dairy-free version, you can replace the eggs with an egg substitute and use non-dairy milk.

FAQs:

Can I use a different pan?
Yes, you can use a different pan size, but adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan may cook faster, while a smaller pan will require extra baking time.

How do I store the leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for longer freshness.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely and store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.
• This cake is perfect for brunch or as a snack with a glass of milk.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple Ingredients: This cake requires just a handful of ingredients, making it an easy dessert to whip up.
• Tender and Light: The fluffy, airy texture of the cake is complemented by the natural sweetness of the apples.
• Versatile: The recipe is easy to modify to suit your preferences or dietary needs, and it works well with different fruits and spices.