Frequently Asked Questions
What is Elegant Russian Sharlotka?
It is a traditional Russian apple sponge cake featuring a light and fluffy batter and tart Granny Smith apples.
Which chef is this version of Sharlotka associated with?
This recipe is elevated by British celebrity chef James Martin.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness which balances the sweet sponge.
How many apples do I need?
The recipe calls for 3 Granny Smith apples.
What is the required oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How long does the Sharlotka take to bake?
It typically takes between 30 and 40 minutes to bake.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the main ingredients for the batter?
The batter consists of caster sugar, plain flour, and beaten eggs.
Is there butter in the cake batter?
No, butter is only used for greasing the baking dish.
How should I prepare the apples?
The apples should be peeled, cored, and sliced.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a portion?
Each portion contains 41.67 grams of carbohydrates.
What is the protein content?
There are 5 grams of protein per serving.
How much sugar is in each serving?
Each serving contains 20 grams of sugar.
How do I prepare the baking dish?
Grease a deep baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter and dust it with a little plain flour.
What is the correct way to arrange the apples?
Arrange the sliced apples in an even layer at the bottom of the dish, placing them closely together.
How do I know when the cake is finished baking?
The sponge should be golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center should come out clean.
What should I do if the skewer comes out sticky?
Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
What is the texture of the finished batter?
The batter should be thick and smooth after vigorous whisking.
How should I serve the Sharlotka?
It is best served warm, potentially with a dusting of icing sugar or vanilla ice cream.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it uses a straightforward method and easily accessible ingredients, making it ideal for home bakers.
How many eggs are required?
The recipe requires 3 large, beaten eggs.
What amount of caster sugar is needed?
You will need 8 ounces of caster sugar.
What amount of plain flour is used?
The recipe uses 5 ounces of plain flour, plus a little extra for dusting the pan.
When is a good time to serve this cake?
It is perfect for afternoon tea or as a comforting dessert.
Does this recipe include fiber information?
The provided nutritional information lists fiber as null.
Can I add garnish to the cake?
Yes, a dusting of icing sugar is recommended for garnish.
How should the batter be applied to the apples?
Gently pour the batter over the apple slices until they are entirely covered.
Should the cake be cooled before serving?
The Sharlotka should be allowed to cool slightly before serving.