German Apple Cake: 7 Easy Steps to a Delicious Dessert
Craving a cozy homemade dessert? This German apple cake is the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its moist texture, spiced aroma, and tender apple slices, it's a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall any time of year. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a personal dessert moment, this cake is sure to impress. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make, so you can enjoy a slice in no time. Let's dive into this simple recipe that anyone can bake today!
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- Provides the structure for the cake.
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- Adds richness and moisture.
- 2 cups sugar
- Sweetens the cake and contributes to its moistness.
- 1 cup canola oil
- Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- ½ cup orange juice
- Adds a subtle citrus flavor and moisture.
- 2½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- Infuses the cake with a warm, sweet aroma.
- 4 cups thinly sliced peeled apples (about 4 to 5 apples)
- Provides the signature fruity flavor and texture.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- Sprinkled over apples for a sweet, caramelized topping.
- Confectioners' sugar, optional
- For dusting before serving, adding a touch of elegance.
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 85 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until smooth. Add the oil and orange juice, mixing well.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Arrange half of the apple slices over the batter. Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Repeat with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon-sugar.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 1 hour. Then, remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Before serving, dust with confectioners' sugar if desired.
Tips & Tricks
- Apple Variety: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Citrus Twist: Replace orange juice with lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with adding nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a spiced kick.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the spiced flavors of the cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm cake.
- Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the dessert experience.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea pairs well with the sweetness of the cake.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
- Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Info
(Per serving, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- **Car