James Martin’s Russian Sharlotka (Apple Sponge)

May 06, 2023May 6, 20230 2

Russian apple sponge cake with a twist of citrusy flavor

James Martin’s Russian Sharlotka (Apple Sponge)

by The Chefin Dessert

Prep

10 min

Cook

40 min

Ready In

50 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

231

Sugar

30g

Fat

James Martin's Russian Sharlotka or Apple Sponge, is a traditional Russian dessert with a unique twist. The cake is soft and moist with a light and airy texture. This cake is perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed with coffee or tea. In this recipe, we have added a hint of citrusy flavor, which gives the cake an added zing.

Instructions

1.	Preheat the oven to 180°C or gas mark 4.
2.	Grease and base-line a 20cm spring-form cake tin with the butter and flour.
3.	Whisk the eggs and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and fluffy, which will take about 3 minutes.
4.	Fold in the flour until thoroughly combined.
5.	Add the apple slices and mix well. Add the juice and zest, then fold everything together.
6.	Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and shrinking away from the edge of the tin.
7.	Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before transferring the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
8.	Dust with some icing sugar before serving.

PROS

Soft and fluffy texture with a unique blend of sweet and sour apple flavors.
This cake is easy to make and can be enjoyed on its own or with vanilla ice cream.

CONS

May not rise as much as regular sponge cakes due to the absence of baking powder.
The cake may not hold its shape if not left to cool completely.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Apples being the main ingredient are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C which is vital for the immune system. It also contains antioxidants that help in lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart diseases and certain cancers.

	8 ounces caster sugar
	5 ounces plain flour , plus extra
	plain flour , for dusting
	3 eggs
	1 tablespoon butter , for greasing
	3 granny smith apples , peeled , cored and sliced