Old-timey danish “apple cake”

In our home, the creation of Danish æblekage, an old-timey apple sauce trifle, is a cherished ritual, weaving together the simplicity of traditional recipes with our own family twist. We begin with a layer of oats, transformed into a sweet, golden base with honey and butter. Atop this crunchy foundation lies the heart of the dessert: homemade apple sauce, infused with the warm, aromatic notes of cardamom and vanilla. The final flourish is a cloud of whipped cream, light and airy. A sprinkle of colorful toppings adds a festive touch, making each serving a celebration of both flavor and heritage. This æblekage is more than a dessert; it's a symbol of cozy gatherings and the timeless joy of shared meals.

Ingredients:

For the Oat Layer:

• 2 cups oats

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1/4 cup butter

For the Apple Sauce:

• 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp ground cardamom

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tbsp sugar

• Sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oat Layer: Melt butter in a pan and stir in honey. Add oats and cook until they are golden and crispy. Press this mixture into the bottom of a serving dish and let it cool.

2. Make the Apple Sauce: Combine apples, water, and sugar in a pot. Cook over medium heat until apples are soft. Add vanilla extract and cardamom, and mash the mixture into a chunky sauce. Let the apple sauce cool and then spread it over the oat layer.

3. Whip the Cream: Whip the heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.

4. Assemble the Æblekage: Spread the whipped cream over the apple layer. Decorate with sprinkles.

5. Chill and Serve.