Õunakook (Estonian Apple Cake)

Õunakook is a traditional Estonian dessert that combines sweet apples and warm spices in a tender, moist cake. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this cake offers a comforting and irresistible flavor.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (0.68 kg) apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1 cup (0.5 lb / 0.23 kg) sugar
• 2 cups (0.88 lb / 0.4 kg) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (0.25 lb / 0.11 kg) butter, softened
• 3 large eggs (0.33 lb / 0.15 kg)
• 1/2 cup (0.25 lb / 0.11 kg) milk
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.

2. Prepare the Batter

   Cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined.

3. Assemble the Cake

   Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and layer half of the apple slices on top. Pour the remaining batter over the apples and arrange the rest of the apple slices decoratively on top.

4. Bake

   Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving

Serve Õunakook warm or at room temperature, plain or with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.