Romanian apple cake, or “prăjitură cu mere”, is a delightful treat that blends the warmth of spiced apples with the comforting texture of a homemade cake. This traditional dessert holds a special place in Romanian households, often served during holidays and family gatherings. The aroma of cinnamon and apples baking in the oven is enough to make anyone feel at home.
What makes this cake unique is its simplicity and the use of fresh, local ingredients. Romanian apple cake recipes often call for basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and eggs, but the magic happens with the addition of grated apples and a touch of lemon zest. It’s a perfect way to use up those extra apples and create something truly special. Whether you’re new to Romanian cuisine or a seasoned baker, this recipe promises to bring a slice of Eastern European charm into your kitchen.
Ingredients
To make the classic Romanian apple cake, you’ll need a variety of basic ingredients. Below, I’ve broken them down into categories for the cake, the filling, and an optional topping.
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling
- 6 medium apples (peeled, cored, and grated)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Tools and Equipment
To create the perfect Romanian apple cake, you will need a selection of essential tools and equipment. Ensuring you have these items on hand will streamline the baking process and elevate the quality of your cake.
Mixing Bowls
Several mixing bowls are essential. You will need a large bowl for combining the dry ingredients and another medium-sized bowl for mixing the wet components. Additionally, a small bowl can be handy for holding the grated apples temporarily.
Grater
A box grater or a handheld grater is necessary for grating the apples. The medium-sized grating surface works best to achieve the right texture without making the apples too mushy.
Lemon Zester
A lemon zester will help you get fine, fragrant lemon zest that enhances the cake’s flavor. Opt for a microplane zester for the best results.
Cake Pan
A 9×13 inch rectangular cake pan is the standard size for this recipe. Ensure it is well-greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a set of measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts of flour, sugar, milk, and other ingredients.
Whisk and Spatula
A whisk is useful for combining the dry ingredients and mixing the wet ones. A rubber spatula will help you fold the grated apples into the batter without over-mixing.
Electric Mixer
While not strictly necessary, an electric mixer can make the process quicker and easier. It’s particularly helpful for beating the eggs and sugar to a light, fluffy consistency.
Knife and Cutting Board
You’ll need a sharp knife and a cutting board to peel and core the apples before grating them. A paring knife works well for this task.
Sifter
Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt ensures that your dry ingredients are thoroughly combined and free of lumps, resulting in a smoother cake batter.
Cooling Rack
A cooling rack allows the cake to cool evenly after baking. This step is crucial for the final texture and prevents the bottom of the cake from becoming soggy.
Powdered Sugar Sifter
Finally, a small sifter or fine-mesh strainer is ideal for dusting powdered sugar over the top of the cooled cake for a beautiful, professional finish.
Having these tools and equipment ready will ensure a smooth baking experience and help you achieve a delectable Romanian apple cake that your family and friends will love.
Directions
Follow these directions step-by-step to create a delicious Romanian apple cake using the fresh, local ingredients we already discussed.
Prepare the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter (room temperature) and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Beat in 3 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with 1/2 cup of milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Add Lemon Zest: Fold in the zest of one lemon for a burst of fresh flavor.
Prepare the Filling
- Grate the Apples: Peel and core 4 medium apples, then grate them using a grater. Place the grated apples in a bowl and set aside.
- Add Sugar and Cinnamon: Add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the grated apples. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
Assemble the Cake
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch cake pan with butter or cooking spray, then lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Batter and Apples: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Add the apple mixture on top of the batter, spreading it out to cover evenly. Pour the remaining batter over the apples, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Bake: Place the assembled cake into the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for at least 20 minutes before serving.
- Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle powdered sugar on top of the cooled cake using a powdered sugar sifter.
Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of fresh apples and cinnamon with every bite of your Romanian apple cake.
Recipe Notes and Tips
When making a Romanian apple cake, a few pointers can make the process smooth and the results exceptional.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature before starting. This aids in achieving a smoother batter.
- Grating Apples: When grating apples, I recommend using a box grater for medium-sized pieces. Avoid finely grating, as chunkier apple bits provide a delightful texture in the cake.
- Squeezing Excess Juice: After grating the apples, lightly squeeze out the excess juice. Too much moisture can make the cake soggy, but don’t overdo it; a little juice enhances the cake’s moisture.
- Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest adds a burst of citrus flavor. Use fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice to get the zest. A microplane grater works best for this purpose.
- Baking Time Variations: Oven temperatures can vary. Check the cake at the 40-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs, indicating doneness.
- Cooling the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents the cake from breaking apart while it’s still settling.
- Powdered Sugar Topping: If you choose to sprinkle powdered sugar, ensure the cake is completely cool. This prevents the sugar from melting and disappearing into the cake.
- Storage Tips: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully over time.
These tips and notes will help you bake a Romanian apple cake that is not only delicious but also has the perfect texture and flavor balance.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Storing the Romanian Apple Cake
After allowing the Romanian apple cake to cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help preserve its moisture and keep the flavors intact. You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration
If you plan to keep the cake for longer, place the airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will stay fresh for up to one week. Before serving, let the cake come to room temperature. This will help restore its soft texture and enhance the flavor.
Freezing the Cake
To freeze the Romanian apple cake, wrap each piece in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped pieces into a zip-top freezer bag or a freezer-safe container. Label the bag or container with the date. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the slices overnight in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you want to prepare the cake ahead of time, you can bake it a day or two in advance. Follow the cooling and storing instructions, so it remains fresh. For a special occasion or holiday meal, you can also prep the grated apples and lemon zest a day before baking. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prep will save time and make baking quicker and easier on the day you plan to serve the cake.
Conclusion
Romanian apple cake offers a delicious way to enjoy fresh, local ingredients in a simple yet flavorful dessert. By following the detailed recipe and incorporating tips like using room temperature ingredients and grating apples, you can achieve a cake with perfect texture and balance. Whether you store it at room temperature, refrigerate, or freeze it, this cake remains delightful for days. Prepping ingredients in advance can save you time and make the baking process even smoother. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of fresh apples and cinnamon in every bite of this traditional Romanian treat.