Danish Apple Cake (Æblekage)
A delightful Danish dessert that is more of a trifle than a cake, featuring layers of stewed apples, crunchy almond macaroons (or toasted breadcrumbs), and whipped cream. It's a light and refreshing end to any meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Apples(about 8-10 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (a mix of tart and sweet varieties works well))
- 100 g Sugar(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 50 g Butter
- 150 g Breadcrumbs(or crushed almond macaroons)
- 50 g Granulated sugar(for toasting breadcrumbs)
- 300 ml Heavy cream(whipped to soft peaks)
- 50 g Almonds(slivered or flaked, toasted (optional, for garnish))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, 100g sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and have broken down into a chunky compote, about 20-30 minutes. Mash slightly if desired, but leave some texture.
- 2
Let the apple compote cool completely.
- 3
While the apples cool, prepare the crunchy topping: Melt the butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs (or crushed macaroons) and 50g granulated sugar. Toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to burn.
- 4
Spread the toasted breadcrumb mixture on a plate or baking sheet to cool completely.
- 5
Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Do not overwhip.
- 6
To assemble the Æblekage, use a large glass serving bowl or individual glasses. Start with a layer of the cooled apple compote.
- 7
Add a layer of the toasted breadcrumb mixture over the apples.
- 8
Top with a generous layer of whipped cream.
- 9
Repeat the layers if desired, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
- 10
Garnish with toasted slivered almonds, if using. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can substitute toasted breadcrumbs with crushed almond macaroons for a more traditional texture.
- ✓Adjust the sugar in the apple compote based on the sweetness of your apples.
- ✓For a quicker version, use store-bought apple sauce (unsweetened) and toast breadcrumbs separately.
🔄 Variations
- Add a layer of jam (like raspberry or strawberry) between the apple and breadcrumb layers.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of rum or sherry into the apple compote for an adult twist.
- Serve with a drizzle of berry coulis.