The Best Timeless Croatian Apple Cake 🍎 - Vera's Ljena Pita

A Simple, Sweet Treat That Gets Better with Time

If you love apple pie but want something easier to make (and possibly even more delicious), this Croatian apple cake is for you. This old-school recipe has been passed down through generations, and for good reason — it’s soft, gently sweet, and the kind of cake that only gets better as the days go by.

It's perfect for potlucks, sharing with neighbors, or enjoying with your afternoon tea. Think of it like a relaxed cousin to apple pie — no fuss, no complicated techniques, just wholesome ingredients and cozy flavors. 

This cake always reminds me of my mother-in-law and my husband's grandmother; it's so beloved that I'm sure it will be one of those recipes that will be cherished for generations to come. I hope you give it a try. 

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cake:

• Healthier than most desserts – Apples are high in fiber and packed with skin-loving antioxidants.

• Lasts all week – This cake stays moist and tender, making it the perfect make-ahead treat.

• Versatile – Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it cold as a yummy afternoon snack.

✨ Ingredients

Dough

• 2 cups Brasno flour (or all-purpose)

• 1/3 cup white sugar

• 1 cup (250g) butter, cut into cubes

• 1 egg

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 2 tbsp milk

Filling

• 6 apples, peeled and grated

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 packet vanilla sugar (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 cup fine breadcrumbs (to soak up the apple juices)

🥣 Directions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a large bowl, add butter cubes and let sit until room temperature. Add remaining dough ingredients and mix with your hands until a smooth dough forms.
   On a floured surface, roll into a log or cylinder, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Make the Filling
   Grate your apples and mix in cinnamon, vanilla sugar, brown sugar, and breadcrumbs. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Cake
   Preheat oven to 380°F (195°C).
   Cut chilled dough in half. On a floured surface, roll each half into a rectangle, roughly the size of your 8x11 baking pan.
   Press the bottom layer into the pan. Spread the apple mixture evenly on top. Lay the second dough layer over the apples and gently press down.
   Poke a few holes in the top with a fork to allow steam to escape.

4. Bake
   Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top crust is golden brown.

5. Finish & Serve
   Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar. Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or cooled as a snack.

🧡 Final Thoughts

This Croatian apple cake is proof that simple recipes are often the best. It’s soft, buttery, lightly sweet, and filled with juicy spiced apples. The best part? It tastes even better the next day.

Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck or sneaking a slice with your morning coffee, this is one of those timeless desserts that always hits the spot.

Enjoy!

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