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Traditional German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen)

Prep time: 15 minutes Bake time: 40 minutes Total time: 55 minutes
Print Recipe
Servings: 10 Slices
Course: Cake
Cuisine: Germany
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 250 g 1 cup butter, softened
  • 180 g ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 300 g 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 100 g 1 cup ground almonds or hazelnuts
  • 125 ml ½ cup milk
  • 900 g 2 lb tart apples, about 4-5 apples
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Cinnamon sugar for topping

Method
 

  1. Prepare the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the apples. Peel, core and slice the apples. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Make the batter. Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and creamy. Add eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition.
  4. Add dry ingredients. In a separate bowl combine flour, baking powder, ground almonds and salt. Slowly mix into the batter alternating with the milk.
  5. Spread the batter. Spread evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Add the apples. Arrange the apple slices on top and gently press them into the batter. Sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.
  7. Bake. Bake for 35-45 minutes until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.
  8. Serve. Let cool slightly and serve warm — dusted with extra cinnamon sugar if desired.

Notes

Ground almonds in the batter give this cake an extra depth of flavor that most recipes skip — do not leave them out! For extra crunch add sliced almonds on top before baking. The cake tastes wonderful still warm from the oven. It keeps well for 2-3 days at room temperature.