Spiced Rye Bread Cake with Apples

This delectable dessert combines the rich flavors of rye bread with the sweetness of apples, creating a unique and satisfying treat. The cake is made with a base of buttery batter, combined with grated rye bread, which gives it an earthy depth and subtle texture. Added to this mix are the zest of lemon and orange, infusing the cake with a refreshing citrus aroma. Thinly sliced, sugar-coated apples form a succulent layer in the middle, enhancing the cake's sweetness. Once baked, the cake is beautifully decorated with whipped cream and fresh fruits, turning this humble dessert into an eye-catching centerpiece. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a delightful way to use leftover rye bread creatively. With a moist interior and a light, velvety topping, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this cake as a dessert after a hearty meal or with a cup of tea in the afternoon.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200 g butter or margarine
• 200 g sugar
• 3 eggs
• 2 cups grated rye bread
• Zest of one lemon and one orange
• 1 apple
• 400 g whipped cream

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 80 minutes (including prep and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Batter: Start by creaming 200 g of butter or margarine with 200 g of sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cake.
2. Add Eggs: Gradually add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth mix.
3. Incorporate Zest: Stir in the zest of one lemon and one orange. The citrus zest will add a bright and zesty flavor to your cake.
4. Introduce Rye Bread: Gently fold in 2 cups of grated rye bread. This will not only add a unique texture but also enhance the flavor profile of the cake.
5. Divide the Mixture: Divide the cake batter into two equal parts. This will form the base and top layer of your cake with the apple filling in between.
6. Prepare the Apples: Peel and thinly slice one apple. Sprinkle the slices with sugar to enhance their natural sweetness.
7. Layer the Cake: Grease your baking pan and pour half of the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Add Apple Layer: Arrange the sugar-coated apple slices evenly on top of the batter layer.
9. Final Layer: Pour the remaining batter over the apple slices, spreading it carefully to cover the apples.
10. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature and bake the cake until it’s cooked through and lightly golden on top.
11. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a serving plate.
12. Whipped Cream Garnish: Once the cake is completely cool, generously spread 400 g of whipped cream over the top.
13. Decorate: Add fresh fruit on top for an eye-catching presentation. Try using berries or slices of citrus fruit for a burst of color and flavor.
14. Serve: Slice and serve the cake as a delightful dessert.
15. Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep the whipped cream fresh.
16. Refrigerate: Allow it to chill briefly before serving again, if needed.
17. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar levels in the batter or apple filling if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
18. Homemade Whipped Cream: For added freshness, make your whipped cream from scratch using heavy cream and a touch of vanilla extract.
19. Warm Servings: For a comforting treat, serve the cake slightly warm with a dollop of cream on the side.
20. Enjoy: Enjoy your creation with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience.

Tips

• Apple Substitute: Use pears instead of apples for a different flavor profile.
• Bread: If rye bread is unavailable, try using a dense, whole-grain bread instead.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice undertone.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: Make your whipped cream fresh for the best flavor.

Nutritions

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 6 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute margarine for butter and use a flaxseed egg mixture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rye bread for those with gluten allergies.
• Low-Sugar: Reduce sugar quantity in both the batter and with the apple slices.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a citrus tea for a complementary flavor.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert experience.
• Serve with a side of fresh berries to enhance freshness.

Best Places

• Café Savoy - Renowned for its exquisite desserts and classic European ambiance. Location: Vítězná 124/5, 150 00 Prague, Czech Republic.
• Demel - A historic pastry shop known for traditional Austrian treats. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Café Central - Visit for its elegant interiors and rich dessert menu. Location: Strauchgasse 4, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Ladurée - World-famous for its pastries and luxurious atmosphere. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France.
• Patisserie Valerie - Known for its authentic French pastries and tarts. Location: 44 Old Compton St, Soho, London W1D 4TY, UK.
• Café Landtmann - Offers traditional Viennese coffee and cake experience. Location: Universitätsring 4, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Café de Flore - Iconic Paris café offering pastries and a charming atmosphere. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France.
• Sacher Café - Famous for its original Sacher-Torte and refined setting. Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Konditorei Oberlaa - Offers a wide variety of traditional and contemporary pastries. Location: Neuer Markt 16, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Café Schober - Delight in the old-world charm and delicacies. Location: Napfgasse 4, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.