Description
A beginner-proof, foolproof German apple cake featuring a simple one-bowl batter, caramelized Granny Smith apples, and a rich cinnamon custard layer. It is moist, tender, and perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced into 1/4 inch wedges
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, then dust with flour, tapping out excess.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Peel and core the apples, slicing them into thin wedges. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon. Sprinkle over the batter, then arrange apple slices on top, overlapping slightly and pressing down gently.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and frothy.
- Pour the custard evenly over the apples and batter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set (a knife inserted in the center should come out mostly clean).
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving warm.
Notes
Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for best texture. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil. The cake tastes better the next day as flavors meld. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and vegan butter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 35
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
Keywords: Oktoberfest, German Apple Cake, Cinnamon Custard, Fall Dessert, Easy Baking, One Bowl Cake, Apple Dessert, Beginner Friendly