German apple cake

Here’s a traditional German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen) recipe – a cozy and delicious dessert that combines a tender, buttery cake base with fresh apples and a hint of cinnamon.

Traditional German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen)

Ingredients:

For the cake:

• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 2/3 cup (130 g) granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 1/4 cups (160 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• Pinch of salt

• 2–3 tbsp milk

For the apples:

• 2–3 medium apples (firm, tart ones like Granny Smith or Braeburn)

• 1–2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)

Optional toppings:

• Powdered sugar (for dusting after baking)

• Whipped cream or vanilla sauce for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the apples:

   • Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.

   • Toss them with lemon juice, cinnamon, and sugar. Set aside.

3. Make the cake batter:

   • In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each.

   • Mix in vanilla extract.

   • In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.

   • Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until just combined.

4. Assemble the cake:

   • Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

   • Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern on top, gently pressing them into the batter.

5. Bake:

   • Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the apples are golden.

6. Cool and serve:

   • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then remove from the pan and cool completely.

   • Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

🇩🇪 Tips:

• Serve slightly warm with whipped cream or vanilla sauce.

• You can add sliced almonds or a crumb topping before baking for extra texture.