Instructions:
1. Apple Prep: Toss the diced apple with 1 tablespoon of sugar and set aside. These little apple gems will infuse the cake with bursts of natural sweetness.
2. Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 eggs with a pinch of salt until slightly thickened. Add in 1 tsp vanilla sugar and 0.6 cup sugar, mixing until creamy. Gradually pour in 1/2 cup vegetable oil, followed by 1/2 cup warm milk, blending until smooth.
3. Dry Ingredients: Sift together 1.75 cups flour and 2 tsp baking powder, then gently fold into the wet mixture, creating a smooth, lump-free batter.
4. Fruit and Mix-ins: Stir in the sugared apple cubes and 50 g of raisins, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Cake Assembly: Pour the batter into a greased and floured cake pan. Arrange the thin apple slices on top in a beautiful pattern for an elegant finish.
6. Glaze: Whisk 1 egg yolk with 2 tablespoons of milk, then lightly brush over the top of the cake to achieve a golden, glossy crust.
7. Bake: Place the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Finish with a Dusting: Once the cake has cooled slightly, dust with powdered sugar if desired. This adds a delicate sweetness to the cake’s golden surface.
