Nigerien Apple Cake

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Swedish Skånsk äppelkaka is transformed into a Nigerien delight by incorporating local ingredients and spices. The original recipe is modified to include aromatic spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, which are commonly used in Nigerien cuisine. Additionally, the streusel topping is enhanced with millet flour and peanuts, adding a unique texture and nutty flavor that reflects the culinary traditions of Niger. We alse have the original recipe for Skånsk äppelkaka, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 2 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 2 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• For the streusel topping: For the streusel topping:
• 1/2 cup (60g) millet flour 1/2 cup (60g) millet flour
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped peanuts 1/4 cup (30g) chopped peanuts
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 43g (Sugars: 25g)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
6. 6.
   Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan. Arrange a layer of sliced apples on top, then pour the remaining batter over the apples.
7. 7.
   In a small bowl, combine the millet flour, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, chopped peanuts, and melted butter to make the streusel topping. Mix until crumbly.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the cake batter.
9. 9.
   Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. 10.
    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best flavor and texture.
• Millet flour — If millet flour is not available, you can substitute it with cornmeal or almond flour for a similar texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of ground ginger to the cake batter.
• Serve the Nigerien Apple Cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• If you prefer a sweeter cake, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving.
• Experiment with different types of nuts in the streusel topping, such as cashews or almonds, for a unique twist.
• To enhance the presentation, dust the cooled cake with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

Serving advice

Serve the Nigerien Apple Cake as a delicious dessert after a traditional Nigerien meal. It can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Present the Nigerien Apple Cake on a decorative cake stand or plate. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an elegant touch.