When it comes to desserts that combine simplicity and elegance, German Apple Cake stands out as a masterpiece. This dessert is the perfect blend of moist cake, tender apples, and warm spices, making it ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday dinner, or a cozy afternoon treat with coffee.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to create a perfect German Apple Cake, from its rich history to tips for achieving the best results. Let’s get started!
What Is German Apple Cake?
German Apple Cake, known as “Apfelkuchen” in Germany, is a classic dessert that highlights the simplicity of natural ingredients. The cake typically features layers of sliced apples arranged over a lightly spiced batter, creating a rustic yet sophisticated look. Unlike overly sweet American-style desserts, German cakes focus on balanced flavors, allowing the natural tartness of the apples to shine through.
Ingredients for German Apple Cake
For the Cake Batter:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar 🧂
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 🌿
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour 🌾
- 2 teaspoons baking powder 🧁
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌰
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) 🌿
- 1/4 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk 🥛
For the Apple Topping:
- 3 medium-sized apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 🍏
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 🧂
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌰
For Garnishing:
- Powdered sugar for dusting 🌟
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
2. Prepare the Apples
- Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
- In a medium bowl, toss the slices with sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated. Set aside.
3. Make the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is essential for a moist cake.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Arrange the apple slices on top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping for a beautiful presentation.
5. Bake the Cake
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Once cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
- Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Tips for a Perfect German Apple Cake
1. Choose the Right Apples
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for this recipe because they balance the sweetness of the cake. Avoid overly soft apples, as they may become mushy during baking.
2. Enhance the Flavor
For a zesty kick, toss the apple slices with a tablespoon of lemon juice before arranging them on the cake. This step not only adds brightness but also prevents the apples from browning.
3. Prevent Overmixing
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid a dense cake.
German Apple Cake: A Timeless Dessert Full of Flavor 🍏✨
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup 150g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups 190g all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup 120ml whole milk
- 3 medium-sized apples peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for dusting optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Arrange the apple slices on top in a spiral pattern and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Why German Apple Cake Is a Must-Try
German Apple Cake offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The tender apples provide a juicy contrast to the buttery cake, while the warm spices create a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Coffee: Enjoy your cake with a freshly brewed cup of coffee for an authentic German experience.
- Top with Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take this dessert to the next level.
- Serve Warm: Heat the cake slightly before serving to enhance its flavors.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 260 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
FAQs About German Apple Cake
1. Can I Use Other Fruits?
Yes, pears and peaches make great substitutes. However, the baking time may vary slightly based on the fruit’s moisture content.
2. How Do I Store the Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can I Freeze It?
Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Explore More Recipes
For more authentic German desserts, check out these recipes:
Why German Apple Cake Will Always Be a Favorite
The beauty of German Apple Cake lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something comforting. Its balance of sweetness, spice, and natural fruitiness makes it a timeless classic.
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