Russian Apple Pie (Sharlotka)
Classic • Light • Fluffy • No Butter Needed
Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Bake: 35–40 minutes
Total: ~55 minutes
Serves
6–8 slices
Ingredients (Detailed & Flexible)
Core Ingredients
3 medium apples (Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, or Fuji)
→ peeled, cored, thinly sliced
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup (200 g) white sugar
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional Flavor Boosters
½–1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg (very subtle warmth)
Zest of ½ lemon (brightens apple flavor)
For the Pan
Butter or oil for greasing
Optional: parchment paper for easy removal
For Topping (Optional)
Powdered sugar
Extra apple slices or thin almond flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions (Foolproof)
1️⃣ Prepare the Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
Grease an 8–9 inch (20–22 cm) round pan
Optional: line the bottom with parchment
2️⃣ Prep the Apples
Peel, core, and slice apples thinly
Toss with:
Cinnamon (if using)
Lemon zest (optional)
Thin slices = soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture
3️⃣ Whip Eggs & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat eggs + sugar
Use whisk or mixer for 5–7 minutes
Mixture should be:
Pale
Thick
Tripled in volume
This step gives Sharlotka its famous airy crumb—don’t rush it
4️⃣ Add Flavor & Dry Ingredients
Gently mix in:
Vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Sift flour and fold slowly using a spatula
Use gentle motions to keep air inside
Do not overmix
5️⃣ Assemble the Cake
Spread apples evenly in the pan
Pour batter over apples
Lightly tap pan to remove air bubbles
Optional:
Add a few apple slices on top for decoration
6️⃣ Bake
Bake 35–40 minutes
Top should be:
Golden
Firm to the touch
A toothpick comes out clean
Don’t open the oven in the first 25 minutes
7️⃣ Cool & Finish
Cool in pan for 10 minutes
Remove and cool completely
Dust with powdered sugar before serving
Why Sharlotka Is So Loved
Apples → Light sweetness, moisture, gentle fiber
Eggs → Natural structure & fluffiness
No butter or oil in batter → Feels light, not heavy
Vanilla aroma → Comfort, nostalgia, warmth
This cake tastes even better the next day
Easy Variations
Extra Apple Version
Use 4–5 apples for a more custardy center
Nutty Twist
Add ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds
Dessert Upgrade
Sprinkle dark chocolate chips over apples
Healthier Option
Replace half the flour with oat flour
Reduce sugar to ¾ cup
Storage Tips
Room temperature: 1 day, covered
Refrigerator: up to 4 days
Freezer: slices freeze well (wrap tightly)
