Delicious Apple and Rhubarb or Berry Cake

This delightful cake combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples and rhubarb or berries into a moist, delicious dessert. Ideal for any occasion, this cake is both simple to prepare and full of flavor, making it a crowd favorite. The soft and fluffy cake base is topped with a creamy, fruit-studded layer that bakes to perfection. Its unique blend of textures and flavors ensures that it is both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and tangy, the cake also allows for flexibility with the choice of fruit. Whether using fresh apples or seasonal berries, each variation brings its own charm. The cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. It's a great way to showcase fresh fruits and a fantastic option for family gatherings or festive celebrations.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1 cup kefir
2 cups flour
2 eggs
Baking powder (1 packet)
Vanilla sugar (1 packet)

Topping

2 eggs
4 tablespoons sour cream
5 apples or any other fruit
Vanilla sugar (1 packet)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 eggs with 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Slowly sift in 2 cups of flour and 1 packet of baking powder into the egg mixture, mixing gently to avoid lumps.
Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour 1 cup of kefir into the flour mixture, stirring until you achieve a smooth, homogeneous batter.
Enhance with Flavor: Stir in 1 packet of vanilla sugar to enrich the flavor profile of your cake batter.
Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a pan lightly and pour the batter into it, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, beat the remaining 2 eggs with the second packet of vanilla sugar until creamy.
Add Sour Cream: Mix in 4 tablespoons of sour cream, creating a smooth mixture for the topping.
Add Fruits: Peel, core, and slice 5 apples thinly, or prepare your desired fruit. Mix the slices into the creamy topping.
Combine Layers: Pour the fruit and cream mixture over the cake batter, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the prepared cake in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes, checking after 20 minutes to ensure it doesn't overcook.
Cool Down: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Transfer and Slice: Carefully transfer the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Prepare for Serving: Use a serrated knife for clean slices, especially if using juicy fruits or berries.
Garnish and Enjoy: Consider dusting lightly with powdered sugar for extra appeal.
Serve with Beverages: This cake pairs excellently with coffee or tea.
Optimal Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor.
Potential for Freshness: Consume within a couple of days, as the fresh fruit topping is best enjoyed shortly after baking.
Experimentation: Feel free to try this recipe with different fruits for slight flavor variances.
Relish the Creation: Enjoy your homemade cake as a testament to simple yet delightful baking.

Tips

Substitutions: Use yogurt in place of kefir if desired.
Fruity Twists: Try using a mix of berries for a delightful variation.
Baking Technique: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.

Nutritions

Calories: 250 per serving
Protein: 5g
Fats: 8g
Carbohydrates: 38g

Variations

Replace apples with pears or peaches for a sweeter flavor.
For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with almond or coconut flour.
Swap sour cream with a non-dairy alternative for a lactose-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added sweetness.
Enjoy alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a warm herbal tea.
Serve as a breakfast treat or an elegant dessert.

Best Places

Maison Bertaux - Charming pastry shop known for its traditional cakes. Location: 28 Greek St, Soho, London, UK
Magnolia Bakery - Famous for its delightful cakes and nostalgic charm. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA
Pâtisserie Sadaharu Aoki Paris - Offers a fusion of French and Japanese patisserie. Location: 56 Boulevard de Port-Royal, Paris, France
Café Sacher - Renowned for authentic Viennese pastries. Location: Philharmonikerstrasse 4, Vienna, Austria
Tartine Bakery - Trendy spot for creative twists on classic pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA
Demel - Historic café with exquisite cakes and confections. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria
Pastéis de Belém - Iconic spot for delectable sweets. Location: R. de Belém 84-92, Lisbon, Portugal
Café Central - Elegant café offering a vintage vibe with modern delights. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria
Ruszwurm Confectionery - Cozy, century-old spot known for classic Hungarian pastries. Location: Szentháromság u. 7, Budapest, Hungary
Du Pain et des Idées - Known for its rustic pastries and inviting atmosphere. Location: 34 Rue Yves Toudic, Paris, France