Moist, buttery, and bursting with tender apples—Apfelkuchen, or German Apple Cake, is a beloved classic that appears in countless variations across Germany. It’s a comforting dessert that blends simplicity with tradition, making it a staple at family gatherings and Sunday coffee tables.
Whether baked in a springform pan or a rustic tray, Apfelkuchen reflects everything people love about German home baking: seasonal fruit, straightforward ingredients, and a balance of sweet and tart. Let’s explore how to make this crowd-pleasing treat that never goes out of style.
The Origins of German Apple Cake
Apfelkuchen has been a fixture of German kitchens since the 19th century, with regional styles ranging from Saxony’s sheet cakes to southern Germany’s deep-dish versions. Apples were plentiful, easy to store, and ideal for baking—making them the fruit of choice for traditional cakes.
In Germany, Apfelkuchen is enjoyed year-round but becomes especially popular during apple harvest season in the fall. Some recipes include a shortcrust base, others a sponge cake, and many top it off with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of whipped cream.
4–5 tart apples (Boskoop, Braeburn, or Granny Smith)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For finishing:
Powdered sugar for dusting
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)
How to Make German Apple Cake (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 24 cm (9-inch) springform pan.
Step 2: Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture. Add a splash of milk if the batter feels too thick.
Step 4: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Step 5: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss with lemon juice and cinnamon. Arrange them neatly on top of the batter.
Step 6: Bake for 40–45 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before dusting with powdered sugar.
Tips:
For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of rum or almond extract to the batter.
Use a mix of apple varieties for a complex taste.
Apfelkuchen tastes even better the next day!
Serving Suggestions & Variations
How to Serve Apfelkuchen
Serve at room temperature or slightly warm with whipped cream or vanilla sauce. It’s perfect with coffee or as part of an afternoon Kuchenzeit (cake time) tradition.
Variations & Regional Twists
Sour cream Apfelkuchen: Add a tangy sour cream layer between the batter and apples.
Almond topping: Sprinkle sliced almonds over the apples before baking.
Crumb topping: Combine flour, butter, and sugar to create a streusel layer.
Apfelkuchen is the cake that never disappoints. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, it brings together the freshness of apples with the warmth of home baking. No matter which version you try, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Looking for more German classics? Explore our recipes:
German Baking Recipes – Authentic German baking recipes, from apple cakes and rye breads to Christmas cookies and rich tortes. Traditional, easy-to-follow, and full of flavor!
Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) – Paper-thin dough wrapped around spiced apples and raisins—this dessert is an iconic symbol of German-speaking Europe’s pastry tradition.
