Why Make This Recipe
German Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of fresh apples and warm spices. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just as a treat to enjoy at home. This cake is not only simple to make, but it also brings a taste of Germany to your kitchen. The moist texture, sweet apple slices, and a hint of cinnamon make it a favorite among many. So, if you’re looking for a comforting dessert that everyone will love, this is the one for you!
How to Make German Apple Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2-3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Juice of 1 lemon
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the sliced apples on top of the batter, then sprinkle with cinnamon and lemon juice.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
How to Serve German Apple Cake
German Apple Cake can be served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra special treat. It also pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for a cozy afternoon snack.
How to Store German Apple Cake
To store your German Apple Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it at room temperature.
Tips to Make German Apple Cake
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming.
- Feel free to use different types of apples. Granny Smith works great for a tart flavor, while Fuji adds sweetness.
- To enhance the flavor, add nuts like walnuts or pecans on top of the apples before baking.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon based on your taste preference.
Variation
You can add dried fruits like raisins or currants to the batter for added texture and flavor. For a twist, consider adding a layer of nuts or even a cream cheese frosting after baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can use other fruits such as pears or mixed berries to create your own variation of this cake.
2. Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze German Apple Cake. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

German Apple Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the sliced apples on top of the batter, then sprinkle with cinnamon and lemon juice.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.