Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana

Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana is a delightful dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of apples with a light, fluffy cake. This recipe stands out for its delicious flavor and ease of preparation, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or celebrations. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party or enjoying it as a cozy weekend treat, this cake will surely impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and vanilla creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this dessert ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon snack, this cake fits right in.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with ice cream or chilled with whipped cream for different experiences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet apple filling, making it a great choice for family desserts.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking. Having everything organized will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking dish
• Peeler

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for adequately mixing your cake batter and apple filling.
• Whisk: It helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a fluffy texture.
• Baking dish: Choose one that’s the right size for even baking and easy serving.

Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

• 2 huevos grandes, a temperatura ambiente
• 100 g (½ taza) de azúcar granulada
• 1 cucharadita de azúcar de vainilla o 1 cucharadita de extracto puro de vainilla
• 100 ml (⅓ taza + 1½ cucharadas) de leche entera
• 20 g (1½ cucharadas) de mantequilla sin sal, derretida y enfriada
• 80 g (⅔ taza) de harina común
• 1 cucharadita de polvo para hornear
• Una pizca de sal marina fina
• Ralladura fresca de 1 limón sin cera

For the Apple Filling

• 4-5 manzanas medianas (aproximadamente 750 g/1,65 lbs)
• Jugo de ½ limón fresco

For Serving

• 2-3 cucharadas de azúcar en polvo para espolvorear

How to Make Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling and slicing the apples into thin pieces. Place them in a bowl and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly once you place it inside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla sugar (or extract), milk, and melted butter until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring to form a smooth batter.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Pour half of the batter into your greased baking dish. Layer the sliced apples on top evenly. Pour the remaining batter over the apples to cover them completely.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when done.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow your Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana to cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana

Serving Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana can elevate your dessert experience. Whether for a family gathering or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will enhance the flavor and presentation of this delicious cake.

Classic Serving

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for added richness and a light texture.

Fruit Garnish

• Add slices of fresh apples or berries on the side to complement the apple filling.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle some caramel sauce over the cake before serving for an indulgent touch.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish.

Best Side Dishes for Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana

Pairing side dishes with your Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic companion that adds a creamy texture and balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Chocolate Sauce
   Rich chocolate sauce offers a decadent contrast that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

3. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness that complements the baked apple flavors nicely.

4. Nutty Granola
   Serve granola on top for added crunch and an earthy flavor that pairs well with apples.

5. Cinnamon Whipped Cream
   Infuse whipped cream with cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth and spice alongside the cake.

6. Tea or Coffee
   A warm cup of tea or coffee enhances the dessert experience, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid:

• Using cold eggs: Room temperature eggs mix better and create a fluffier cake. Always let your eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before using them.
• Skipping the lemon juice: Lemon juice not only enhances the apple flavor but also prevents browning. Make sure to toss your sliced apples in lemon juice immediately after cutting.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing leads to a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light and airy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make the cake dry. Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different, so check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking slices.

Freezing Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-45 seconds, checking often.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana:

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

You can substitute pears or peaches in this recipe. Adjust sugar depending on the fruit’s sweetness.

How do I ensure my cake rises properly?

Make sure your baking powder is fresh and that you don’t overmix the batter.

What’s the best way to serve this dessert?

Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or alongside vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use flax eggs and plant-based milk as substitutes.

Final Thoughts

This Pastel Alemán con Relleno de Manzana is a delightful dessert that balances sweetness with tartness from fresh apples. It’s versatile too; feel free to customize it by adding nuts or spices like cinnamon. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!