Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Add the apple cider and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the apples and walnuts.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Drizzle with caramel sauce and serve.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter can be substituted for salted butter.
- Light brown sugar can be substituted for dark brown sugar.
- Apple cider can be substituted for apple juice.
- Walnuts can be substituted for pecans or almonds.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
- Replace the caramel sauce with a cream cheese frosting.
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Fold in the apples and walnuts gently so they don’t get mashed.
- Let the cake cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Drizzle with additional caramel sauce.
Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts
- Caramel sauce
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Hot coffee
- Hot cider
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Baked potatoes
- Green salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a few tablespoons of apple cider.
- If the cake is too wet, add a few tablespoons of flour.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Make sure all utensils and equipment are clean and sanitized.
Food History:
Piernik is a traditional Polish cake that is usually made with honey, spices, and nuts. It is believed to have originated in the 14th century and is still popular today.
Flavor Profiles:
This Caramel Apple Piernik is a sweet and spicy cake with a hint of apple and caramel. The spices give it a warm and comforting flavor, while the apples and walnuts add texture and crunch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert after dinner.
- Serve as a snack with coffee or tea.
- Serve as a breakfast treat.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
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Occassion: N/A
Region: Polish
Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Caramelized, Fruity, Nutty