Marillenkuchen is a traditional Austrian apricot cake that not only delights the taste buds but also offers a range of health benefits. Packed with fresh apricots, this cake provides essential vitamins like vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and vitamin A, which promotes healthy skin and vision. The apricots also contain antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radical damage.

While Marillenkuchen is a delicious summer treat, it’s important to note that it contains sugar and fats, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. However, when enjoyed in moderation, it can be a part of a balanced diet, offering both flavor and nourishment. This delightful cake, with its moist texture and natural sweetness, embodies the essence of summer and provides a refreshing way to enjoy seasonal fruits in a comforting dessert.

Ingredients:

1- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

3- 2 teaspoons baking powder

4- 1/4 teaspoon salt

5- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

6- 2 large eggs

7- 1/2 cup milk

8- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

9- 12 fresh apricots, pitted and sliced

Ingredient Substitutions

• You can replace the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
• Instead of butter, consider using unsweetened applesauce or coconut oil.
• Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour.
• For those following a gluten-free diet, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• If you’re following a vegan diet, you can replace the eggs and butter with vegan alternatives. Use flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as an egg substitute and choose vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.

Instructions:

1- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) cake pan and set it aside.

2- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk and vanilla extract, and beating well after each addition.

5- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and arrange the apricot slices on top of the batter.

6- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

7- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

8- Serve the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Notes:

• Adding nuts or seeds: Incorporating walnuts, almonds, or chia seeds into the batter can increase the nutritional value of the cake by adding healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.
• If you don't have fresh apricots, you can use canned or frozen apricots instead.
• The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.Can I use other fruits instead of apricots?

• Yes, you can swap the apricots with other seasonal fruits such as peaches, plums, or apples. Keep in mind that while the flavor will change slightly, these fruits will still provide a delightful, fresh topping for your cake.

2.How can I store Marillenkuchen for a longer time?

• Marillenkuchen can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to a month; just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

3.Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

• Yes, the sugar content can be reduced. You can cut down on the sugar or replace it with healthier alternatives such as honey, agave syrup, or coconut sugar. These alternatives can provide sweetness with a lower glycemic index.

4.Is this cake suitable for people following a gluten-free diet?

• Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Ensure that the baking powder is also gluten-free, which is often the case with most brands, but it’s worth checking the label.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 290
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 22g
• Protein: 4g

Here's the approximate nutritional information for each ingredient in the recipe, based on standard nutritional values:

1/2 cups all-purpose flour:

  - Calories: About 600 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 126g

  - Protein: About 15g

  - Fat: About 1g

  - Sodium: About 10mg

benefits:

• Source of Carbohydrates: Flour provides a significant amount of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary source of energy.
• Dietary Fiber: Although not as high in fiber as whole grain flours, all-purpose flour still contains some fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel regularity.

1/2 cup granulated sugar:

  - Calories: About 387 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 100g

  - Protein: About 0g

  - Fat: About 0g

  - Sodium: About 0mg

benefits:

• Quick Energy: Sugar provides a quick boost of energy due to its high glycemic index.
• Flavor Enhancement: Sugar adds sweetness and enhances the taste of baked goods.
• Carbohydrates: It's a source of carbohydrates, which fuel the body for various activities.

2 teaspoons baking powder:

  - Calories: About 5 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 1g

  - Protein: About 0g

  - Fat: About 0g

  - Sodium: About 1110mg

benefits:

• Leavening Agent: Baking powder helps baked goods rise by releasing carbon dioxide gas when combined with moisture and heat.
• Texture Improvement: It contributes to the light and airy texture of cakes and muffins.

1/4 teaspoon salt:

  - Calories: About 0 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 0g

  - Protein: About 0g

  - Fat: About 0g

  - Sodium: About 581mg

benefits:

• Flavor Enhancement: Salt enhances the flavor of baked goods by balancing sweetness and enhancing other flavors.
• Electrolyte Balance: It helps maintain proper electrolyte balance in the body, which is essential for nerve and muscle function.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened:

  - Calories: About 814 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 0.6g

  - Protein: About 1g

  - Fat: About 92g

  - Sodium: About 4mg

benefits:

• Rich Flavor: Butter adds richness and flavor to baked goods.
• Source of Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Butter contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are important for various bodily functions.
• Caloric Energy: It provides a concentrated source of calories for energy.

2 large eggs:

  - Calories: About 140 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 1g

  - Protein: About 12g

  - Fat: About 10g

  - Sodium: About 140mg

benefits:

• Protein: Eggs are a rich source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Eggs contain various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium.
• Choline: Eggs are a good source of choline, which is important for brain health and development.

1/2 cup milk:

  - Calories: About 30 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 2.5g

  - Protein: About 1.5g

  - Fat: About 1g

  - Sodium: About 25mg

benefits:

• Calcium: Milk is a primary source of calcium, which is essential for bone health and muscle function.
• Protein: It provides high-quality protein necessary for muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamins: Milk is a source of vitamins A and D, important for vision, immune function, and bone health.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract:

  - Calories: About 12 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 0.5g

  - Protein: About 0g

  - Fat: About 0g

  - Sodium: About 0mg

benefits:

• Flavor Enhancement: Vanilla extract adds a rich, aromatic flavor to baked goods.
• Antioxidant Properties: It contains small amounts of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

12 fresh apricots, pitted and sliced:

  - Calories: About 48 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 11g

  - Protein: About 1g

  - Fat: About 0g

  - Sodium: About 0mg

benefits: Apricots are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. They are rich in vitamins A and C, which support eye health and boost the immune system. Apricots also contain potassium and fiber, both of which contribute to digestive health by preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, apricots are loaded with antioxidants like beta-carotene and lycopene, which protect cells from damage, support heart health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. 

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific brands of ingredients used and any variations in portion sizes.

Overall, Marillenkuchen is a delightful cake that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of moist cake and fresh apricots is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more.