Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Ingredients: Requires just a handful of pantry staples—eggs, sugar, flour, and apples—making it both affordable and convenient.
- Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps, this cake comes together swiftly, ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Natural Apple Flavor: The cake isn’t overly sweet, allowing the apples’ natural flavors to shine through, complemented by subtle hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
Ingredients
- 4 large or 5 medium apples (preferably tart varieties like Granny Smith)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Set them aside.
- Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and ½ cup of sugar until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the sour cream and mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
- Stir in the almond or vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
- Arrange half of the apple slices in a circular pattern on the bottom of the pan.
- Pour half of the batter over the apples, spreading it evenly.
- Repeat with the remaining apples and batter.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- Prepare the Almond Topping (optional):
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 egg and ¼ cup of sugar.
- Add 3 tablespoons of melted butter and mix well.
- Add Topping and Continue Baking:
- After the initial 25 minutes of baking, remove the cake from the oven.
- Pour the almond topping over the cake, sprinkle with sliced almonds and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool before removing it from the pan. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 8 slices
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
Variations
- Fruit Additions: Incorporate other fruits like pears or berries for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Infusion: Add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic touch.
- Nut-Free: Omit the almond topping for a simpler version of the cake.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover the cake and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
FAQs
What is Sharlotka?
Sharlotka is a traditional Russian apple sponge cake known for its simplicity and delightful apple flavor.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, while tart apples like Granny Smith are preferred, you can use any variety you have on hand.
Do I need a springform pan?
A springform pan is recommended for easy removal, but a regular cake pan can work if properly greased and lined.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Lining the bottom with parchment paper and greasing the sides will help prevent sticking.
Is the almond topping necessary?
No, the almond topping is optional. The cake is delicious with or without it.
Can I add spices to the batter?
Absolutely, adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4
Sharlotka
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sharlotka is a traditional Russian apple sponge cake that combines tart apples with a fluffy, light batter. This easy-to-make dessert requires minimal ingredients and is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the natural sweetness of apples enhanced with a touch of vanilla and cinnamon.
Ingredients
- 4 large or 5 medium apples (Granny Smith or other tart varieties)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
- Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Set aside.
- Make the Batter:
- Beat the eggs and ½ cup of sugar in a large bowl until dissolved.
- Mix in sour cream until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually combine with the wet ingredients.
- Stir in almond or vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease sides.
- Layer half the apple slices in a circular pattern on the bottom of the pan.
- Pour half of the batter over the apples, spreading evenly. Repeat with remaining apples and batter.
- Bake: Bake for 25 minutes.
- Prepare the Almond Topping (Optional): Whisk together 1 egg, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Add Topping and Continue Baking: Remove the cake from the oven after 25 minutes. Pour the topping over the cake, sprinkle with almonds and 1 tablespoon sugar. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool, remove from the pan, and dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the almond topping.
- Tart apples like Granny Smith enhance the flavor, but any apple variety works.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and spice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Russian
