Lithuanian Cinnamon Apple Cake
This delightful Lithuanian Cinnamon Apple Cake is a unique and scrumptious dessert that showcases the seasonal bounty of apples with a delightful twist. Originating from the cherished 'Art of Lithuanian Cooking,' this egg-free cake relies on the natural sweetness of apples and a blend of aromatic spices. The cake features a cinnamon-infused flour mixture that creates a crumbly texture, beautifully layered over caramelized apple slices. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers a warm, comforting flavor that makes it perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy family dessert. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and sprinkle with powdered sugar for an elegant touch!
5
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
all-purpose flour
1 cup (sifted)
confectioners' sugar
1 cup (plus more for dusting)
ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon
butter
3 tablespoons (cold and cut into small pieces)
apples
6 (peeled, cored, and cut into small sections)
lemon juice
juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, confectioners' sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3
Add the butter to the flour mixture and cut it in using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles small crumbs.
4
Prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it. Arrange the peeled, cored, and cut apple slices in a circular pattern on the bottom of the dish.
5
Drizzle the lemon juice evenly over the apple slices to enhance their flavor and prevent browning.
6
Evenly cover the apple slices with the flour mixture, lightly pressing down to ensure it adheres well.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
8
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few moments. Carefully invert the cake onto a platter, so the apples are on top.
9
Finish by dusting with additional powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and presentation.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lithuanian Cinnamon Apple Cake?
It is a unique, egg-free dessert from the 'Art of Lithuanian Cooking' that features a crumbly cinnamon topping over caramelized apples.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
While the recipe is egg-free, it contains butter, so it is vegetarian but not vegan unless a plant-based butter substitute is used.
How many apples do I need for this cake?
You will need 6 apples, which should be peeled, cored, and cut into small sections.
What size baking dish is required?
An 8x8 inch baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
How long does the cake take to bake?
The cake typically bakes for 35 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Does this cake contain eggs?
No, this is an egg-free recipe that relies on the moisture of the apples and the fat from the butter.
What type of sugar is used in the flour mixture?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of confectioners' sugar mixed into the flour.
Why is lemon juice added to the apples?
Lemon juice is used to enhance the natural flavor of the apples and prevent them from browning.
How do I incorporate the butter into the flour?
Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the cold butter into the flour until it resembles small crumbs.
Should the flour be sifted?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 1 cup of sifted all-purpose flour.
How do I serve the cake?
The cake is inverted onto a platter so the apples are on top and then dusted with powdered sugar.
Can I serve this cake warm?
Yes, it can be served warm or at room temperature.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to provide 5 servings.
How should the apples be arranged in the dish?
Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
What is the final touch for presentation?
Finish the cake by dusting it with additional powdered sugar.
Is the butter melted or cold?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of cold butter cut into small pieces.
How do I know when the apples are done?
The apples should be tender when pierced, and the crust on top should be golden brown.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is considered an easy dessert that is simple to prepare for gatherings or family meals.
What is the texture of the cake?
It has a crumbly, cinnamon-infused texture layered over soft, caramelized apples.
Can I use granulated sugar instead of confectioners' sugar?
The recipe specifically calls for confectioners' sugar to achieve the desired crumbly texture.
How much cinnamon is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Should I grease the baking dish?
Yes, lightly grease the 8x8 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
What makes this cake unique?
Its uniqueness comes from being an upside-down, egg-free cake that highlights seasonal apples with a spiced crumb topping.
Is this a traditional Lithuanian dessert?
Yes, it is a traditional recipe often associated with Lithuanian seasonal baking.
What kind of flour is best?
All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe.
When should I invert the cake?
Allow the cake to cool for a few moments after removing it from the oven before carefully inverting it.
How do I apply the flour mixture?
Spread it evenly over the apple slices and lightly press down so it adheres well.
What can I pair with this cake?
It pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Does the cake contain any sodium?
The recipe does not list added salt, though trace amounts may be present in the butter used.