🍰 A Taste of Lithuanian Tradition

Every Lithuanian family has a treasured version of Obuolių Pyragas, or Lithuanian Apple Cake. This comforting dessert is more than just a sweet treat – it’s a slice of heritage, often passed down through generations. With its wonderfully soft crumb, rich with yogurt (or kefir), and the natural sweetness of apples, this cake is enjoyed year-round, from cozy autumn evenings to sunny summer afternoons. Made with simple ingredients found in any kitchen, this rustic apple cake embodies the essence of traditional Baltic baking: minimal fuss, maximum flavor.

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🎂 The World of Lithuanian Cakes

Lithuania is a cake-lover’s paradise! From simple yogurt cakes to decadent 14-layer honey tortes, desserts here are crafted with love – and often a hint of nostalgia. While some cakes are shared with neighboring cultures (hello, Napoleonas!), the Lithuanian apple cake is firmly rooted in local tradition and widely recognized as a national favorite. Best of all? No exotic ingredients, no elaborate techniques. Just good, honest flavor.

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📝 Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Butter: Use unsalted European-style butter for richness – its higher fat content gives the cake a luxurious texture.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle molasses flavor and keeps the cake moist. Dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor, but avoid white sugar – it’ll dry the cake out.
• Eggs: Use medium-sized eggs (UK) or large (US).
• Natural Yogurt: Regular yogurt works great, but Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even kefir (for an authentic touch) are excellent options.
• All-Purpose Flour: Also called plain flour. Cake flour can be used for an even lighter crumb.
• Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh and not confused with baking soda.
• Apples: Tart apples that soften when baked are key. Peel, core, and slice thinly.

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🍏 Best Apples for Apple Yogurt Cake

The right apple makes all the difference! This cake is known for its incredibly moist texture, which comes from apples that break down into the batter as they bake. Top apple choices:

• Granny Smith: Tart, with the perfect softening texture.
• Braeburn: Juicy and balanced – a great all-rounder.
• Cooking apples: Give a bold tang but may release more moisture.

The goal? Apples that melt into the cake, leaving behind a sweet-tangy whisper in every bite.

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🔪 Instructions

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8 slices

Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C Fan (350°F). Generously butter an 18cm (7-inch) springform cake pan and line the base with parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter gently in a saucepan. Let it cool slightly.
3. Beat eggs and sugar with an electric mixer until pale, thick, and doubled in volume (about 2 minutes).
4. Add yogurt and melted butter to the egg mixture. Mix until fully combined.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.
6. Fold in the dry ingredients along with a pinch of salt. Mix with a spatula until just combined – don’t overmix.
7. Add apples and stir gently until evenly distributed in the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.
9. Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack. Peel off the parchment and let it cool fully before slicing.

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🧁 Serving Suggestions

This cake is delicious served:

• Warm with vanilla ice cream 🍨
• Cold with sour cream or crème fraîche (a traditional Lithuanian touch!)
• With a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey 🍯
• Paired with a cup of black tea or coffee ☕

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❄️ Storage & Freezing Tips

• Room Temperature: Once cooled, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Lithuanians often cover it with a plastic bag and leave it on the counter – simple and effective!
• Freezing: Not recommended. This cake becomes overly moist and loses its texture after thawing.

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❓ FAQs

What is Kefir and Why Use It?

Kefir is a fermented milk drink, thinner than yogurt but with a similar tang. Rich in probiotics and slightly fizzy, it:

• Enhances cake rise due to its acidity
• Adds a unique tangy note
• Keeps the cake incredibly moist
  In Lithuania, kefir is a pantry staple and often used in baking – it gives this cake an authentic flavor twist.

Can I Make It Without a Mixer?

Yes, but it’ll take some elbow grease! Beat the eggs and sugar vigorously by hand for 5–6 minutes until light and fluffy. After adding yogurt and butter, stir again until smooth.

What Extra Flavors Can I Add?

Warm spices make this cake even more irresistible! Try:

• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• A pinch of cloves
  Perfect for cozy autumn vibes. 🍂

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🧰 Equipment Needed

• Electric hand mixer (or a strong whisking arm 💪)
• 18cm (7-inch) springform cake tin
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Sieve or flour sifter

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✍️ Final Thoughts

Moist, mildly tangy, and filled with apple goodness, this Lithuanian Apple Yogurt Cake is a perfect reflection of Baltic comfort baking. Whether served warm with cream or enjoyed as a cold slice with tea, this cake is a beautiful way to experience a slice of Lithuanian life 💛💚❤️

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