Traditional German Apple Cake, known as Apfelkuchen, is one of the most beloved desserts in Germany. Made with fresh apples and a soft buttery batter, this homemade cake is simple, comforting, and perfect for afternoon coffee. This easy Apfelkuchen recipe combines classic ingredients to create a moist and flavorful cake that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This German Apple Cake
- Easy traditional German apple cake recipe
- Made with fresh apples and simple ingredients
- Soft, buttery, and full of flavor
- Perfect for coffee, dessert, or family gathering
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter (250 g), softened
- ¾ cup sugar (180 g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 eggs
- 1 pinch salt
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (300 g)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup ground almonds or hazelnuts
- ½ cup milk
- 2 lb tart apples (about 4–5 apples)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- cinnamon sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel and core the apples, then cut them into slices. Toss them with lemon juice.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time and mix well.
- In another bowl combine flour, baking powder, ground almonds, and salt.
- Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the batter, alternating with the milk.
- Spread the batter evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Arrange the apple slices on top and gently press them into the batter.
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the cake.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes until golden brown.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 10 slices
Baking Tip
For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar over the apples before baking. You can also add sliced almonds on top for a delicious crunchy texture.