Apple Yogurt or Kefir Cake

This delightful recipe combines the tanginess of yogurt or kefir with the sweetness of apples, resulting in a moist and flavorful cake. The batter is a simple blend of pantry staples like flour, sugar, and oil, making it an easy dessert to whip up on a whim. A hint of cinnamon or vanilla sugar accents the cake perfectly, adding a warm and inviting aroma. This cake is ideal for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a light dessert. The addition of semolina gives it a unique texture, setting it apart from typical cakes. You can use fresh, crisp apples or whichever variety you have on hand, making it adaptable to different seasons. It's a great way to enjoy fruit in your baking while keeping things simple and tasty. Suitable for a range of occasions, this cake is a must-try for those who enjoy subtle sweetness balanced with tart ingredients. Serve it plain, with a dusting of sugar, or even a scoop of ice cream. Whether you're hosting guests or enjoying a quiet evening, this cake will surely satisfy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup of yogurt or kefir
• 1 cup of flour
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 cup of semolina
• 1/2 cup of oil
• A pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• Cinnamon or vanilla sugar for topping
• 3 apples

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180-190°C (356-374°F) to ensure it's ready for baking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of yogurt or kefir.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: To the bowl, add 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of semolina.
4. Include Remaining Ingredients: Sprinkle in a pinch of salt, 1/2 cup of oil, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
5. Blend: Mix everything thoroughly using a spatula or mixer until you have a smooth batter.
6. Prepare Apples: Wash and peel the apples. Remove the core and dice them into small pieces.
7. Incorporate Apples: Gently fold the apple pieces into the batter, ensuring they're evenly distributed.
8. Grease Pan: Lightly grease a baking pan with oil to prevent the cake from sticking.
9. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
10. Add Topping: Sprinkle cinnamon or vanilla sugar over the surface for additional flavor.
11. Bake Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven.
12. Baking Time: Bake for approximately 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
13. Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
14. Cool Down: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
15. Transfer: After cooling, gently transfer the cake onto a wire rack for further cooling.
16. Serve Warm: This cake is best served warm, capturing the essence of the baked apples and spices.
17. Cut and Enjoy: Slice into portions and place on a serving platter.
18. Optional Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon before serving for added elegance.
19. Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
20. Relish every bite: Savor the comforting flavors and textures with each slice.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use whole-wheat flour for a healthier version.
• Fruit Alternatives: Pears can replace apples if desired.
• Texture Tip: Allow the batter to rest for a few minutes to adjust to the semolina before baking.
• Spice Variation: Add nutmeg or cardamom for a different spice profile.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

• Substitute yogurt with coconut yogurt for a lactose-free option.
• Reduce sugar for a less sweet version or use honey or maple syrup.
• Add crushed nuts or raisins for extra texture.

Serving Suggestions

• With Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• As a Breakfast Cake: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• For Special Occasions: Top with whipped cream for a touch of festivity.

Best Places

Experience similar delights at top eateries known for unique desserts.

1. Tartine Bakery - Renowned for artisanal pastries and cakes.
   Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.

2. Pierre Hermé Paris - Famous for exquisite desserts and macarons.
   Location: 72 Rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.

3. Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers traditional Italian sweet treats.
   Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, Milan, Italy.

4. Café Central - Known for historic Viennese pastries.
   Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.

5. Roscioli Caffè - Blends traditional and modern Roman pastries.
   Location: Via dei Giubbonari 21/23, Rome, Italy.

6. Demel - World-famous for signature Sachertorte and strudels.
   Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.

7. The Hummingbird Bakery - Brings American baking to London.
   Location: 133 Portobello Rd, London, UK.

8. Café Sacher Wien - Delight in the original Sachertorte in an elegant setting.
   Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, Vienna, Austria.

9. Magnolia Bakery - Offers a cozy atmosphere with New York’s best cupcakes.
   Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA.

10. Fouquet’s Paris - Classic Parisian café known for opulent desserts.
    Location: 99 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.

This apple yogurt or kefir cake is a simple yet delicious treat that can easily become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy baking and sharing with friends and family!