German Apfel Kuchen(Apple Cake)
German Apfel Kuchen is a delightful apple cake featuring tender golden apples atop a buttery crust, baked to perfection with a creamy custard topping. Its comforting flavors and elegant presentation make it ideal for dessert gatherings or afternoon tea, appealing to both fruit and pastry lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut chilled butter into flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add 1/3 cup sugar, 1 egg, and lemon peel; mix until a dough forms.
- Press dough into a ball, then roll out on a floured surface.
- Line the bottom and partially up the sides of a greased 12-inch spring-form pan with the dough.
- Decoratively arrange sliced apples on the pastry.
- Bake the crust with apples for 35 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, beat 3 eggs, whipping cream, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the baked apples and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the custard is set.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a flaky crust, ensure your butter is very cold and avoid overmixing the dough. If you don't have Golden Delicious apples, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp can be used as substitutes for a tart flavor. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for extra warmth. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought pie crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this delightful cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving. This cake is perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat after a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Apfel Kuchen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Apfel Kuchen(Apple Cake) contains roughly 454 calories, with 4g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Apfel Kuchen a day in advance. After baking, let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just reheat it before serving for the best texture.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Golden Delicious apples are ideal for their sweetness and texture, but you can also experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Fuji apples for extra sweetness. Mixing different types can create a more complex flavor profile.
Can I freeze the Apfel Kuchen?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and reheat for the best taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).