Easy-to-make Norwegian Apple Cake

 

Easy-to-make Norwegian Apple Cake 

Although incredibly simple and actually low in calories (no oil or shortening), this cake or, more accurately, torte, is a rich-tasting dessert. It is patterned after a recipe from my sister-in-law, Libbet, who learned it in Vermont. While the cake is satisfying alone, I include a recipe for honey-tinged whipped cream for a topping. Good vanilla ice cream also works well. 

Made by Christina Dondero

The “cake” will serve six to eight.

With cooking spray or butter, grease a 9-inch pie dish (preferably glass or ceramic) or a spring-form pan. Heat oven to 350 degrees.

1/2 cup flour

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon salt

3 medium-large apples, such as Golden Delicious, Rome, or Braeburn

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup slivered or sliced almonds, or coarsely chopped pecans

Combine the dry ingredients. Peel and core apples. Cut them into 1/2-inch slices. Mix these into the dry ingredients. Lightly beat egg and vanilla together in a small bowl, and stir them into fruit just until moistened.

Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth top. Sprinkle with almonds or pecans.

Bake 40-45 minutes, or until the middle bounces back when you touch it. Serve warm or at room temperature. Top with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

 

Honeyed Whipped Cream 

1 cup (1/2 pint) heavy whipping cream

2 teaspoons honey (orange blossom is particularly good) 

Combine cream and honey in cold mixing bowl. Beat, scraping bottom of bowl frequently, to mix honey in well, until fluffy and slightly firm.