Wonderful Polish Apple Cake

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Wonderful Polish Apple Cake (Szarlotka)

Servings: 8–10

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Bake Time: 45–50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cake Base & Topping

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 200 g cold unsalted butter (cubed)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp sour cream or yogurt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Apple Filling

  • 5–6 large apples (Granny Smith or similar), peeled & grated/sliced
  • 2–3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Rub in cold butter with fingers until crumbly.
  4. Add egg, sour cream, and vanilla. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  5. Divide dough into two portions (⅔ and ⅓).
  6. Chill both portions for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Apple Filling

  1. Combine apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
  2. Lightly cook for 5–7 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  3. Cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble

  1. Press the larger portion of dough into a greased baking pan.
  2. Spread apple filling evenly over the base.
  3. Grate or crumble the remaining dough on top.

Step 4: Bake

  • Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden brown.
  • Cool completely before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

  • Dust with powdered sugar
  • Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla custard
  • Enjoy with coffee or tea ☕

Tips for Success

✔ Use tart apples for authentic flavor
✔ Cold butter creates a tender crumb
✔ Let cake cool fully for clean slices

Why This Cake Is Special

Szarlotka is a beloved Polish comfort dessert found in homes, cafés, and celebrations across Poland. Its buttery crust and fragrant apple filling make it timeless, simple, and truly wonderful.

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