German Apple Cake

There’s something magical about a warm slice of German Apple Cake fresh out of the oven. I still remember the first time I tasted it at a charming little bakery in a quaint German village. The rich aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafted through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame. When I took that first bite, I was transported to a world of fluffy cake, tart apples, and creamy frosting that hugged every morsel. It was love at first taste, and ever since, I’ve been eager to recreate that experience at home. Now, with this German Apple Cake recipe, I can share that blissful moment with all of you.

What to Buy for German Apple Cake

The ingredients for this German Apple Cake are simple yet essential. Each component plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The apples offer tartness, while the spices bring warmth, all wrapped in a fluffy cake and topped with a rich frosting. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

• 3 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake.
• 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the tartness of the apples.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our cake, giving it structure.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses a warm, inviting flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a hint of spice.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 4 cups peeled and finely chopped tart apples: I use Granny Smith for their tartness, which is perfect in desserts.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese: Base for the creamy frosting.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Enhances the richness of the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For the frosting, adding more flavor.
• 1 tablespoon half-and-half or milk: Helps achieve a smooth frosting consistency.
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.

Step by Step Instructions for German Apple Cake

Making this German Apple Cake is a delightful experience. It’s easy, enjoyable, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps to create your very own masterpiece.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This initial step ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This prevents the cake from sticking, allowing for easy removal after baking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups sugar, 3 large eggs, 1 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until completely combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy, indicating that the ingredients are well integrated.
4. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and ready to blend with the wet ingredients.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stir gently until you see no dry flour.
6. Fold in 4 cups peeled and finely chopped tart apples and 1 cup chopped pecans. This step is crucial as it incorporates the fruit and nuts, which will add flavor and texture to your cake.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures even baking and a lovely presentation.
8. Bake for about 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake, as ovens may vary in temperature.
9. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to transfer.
10. While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese and 2 tablespoons butter using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
11. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon half-and-half or milk, and 2 cups confectioners’ sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined and fluffy.
12. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top. This adds a rich, creamy layer that complements the cake beautifully.
13. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. But I doubt there will be any!

Recipe Variations about German Apple Cake

There are so many delightful ways to enjoy this German Apple Cake. Here are some variations and tips that can enhance your baking experience.

• Storage: Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
• Nut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts are a great alternative and add a different texture.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.
• Decorative Touches: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before serving for an added sweet touch.

Great Combinations for German Apple Cake

This German Apple Cake pairs beautifully with various side dishes and is perfect for different occasions. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on each slice elevates the dessert experience.
• Pair with Coffee: This cake is fantastic with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings.
• Ideal for Fall Celebrations: With its warm spices and cozy flavors, it’s a great addition to any fall or Thanksgiving meal.
• Perfect for Picnics: Slice and pack this cake for picnics; it’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Store in Refrigerator: If you have leftovers, keep them in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor.
• Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream complements the cake wonderfully!

FAQ

Conclusion

This German Apple Cake is truly a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. From its tender apple-infused cake to the luscious cream cheese frosting, every bite is a celebration of flavors. I encourage you to try making it yourself; it’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories with family and friends. So, why not bring a slice of joy to your table today?

German Apple Cake

The ultimate comfort food, this German Apple Cake combines tender cake with tart apples and a silky cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s a deliciously easy weeknight treat that you’ll want to make again and again!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 16 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: German

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 large Eggs
• 2 cups Sugar
• 1 cup Vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 4 cups Peeled and finely chopped tart apples I use Granny Smith.
• 1 cup Chopped pecans
• 1 8-ounce Pkg cream cheese Softened.
• 2 tablespoons Butter Softened.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon Half-and-half or milk
• 2 cups Confectioners’ sugar

Equipment

• 9×13-inch Baking Pan
• Electric Hand Mixer

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This initial step ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This prevents the cake from sticking, allowing for easy removal after baking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups sugar, 3 large eggs, 1 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until completely combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy, indicating that the ingredients are well integrated.
4. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and ready to blend with the wet ingredients.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stir gently until you see no dry flour.
6. Fold in 4 cups peeled and finely chopped tart apples and 1 cup chopped pecans. This step is crucial as it incorporates the fruit and nuts, which will add flavor and texture to your cake.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures even baking and a lovely presentation.
8. Bake for about 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake, as ovens may vary in temperature.
9. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to transfer.
10. While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese and 2 tablespoons butter using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
11. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon half-and-half or milk, and 2 cups confectioners’ sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined and fluffy.
12. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top. This adds a rich, creamy layer that complements the cake beautifully.
13. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. But I doubt there will be any!

Notes

• Storage: Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just ensure it's well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
• Nut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts are a great alternative and add a different texture.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.
• Decorative Touches: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before serving for an added sweet touch.

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Meet Chloe Bennett

I started this blog to document the rustic, comforting food I love to make. I’m the “Pine” of the group I’m all about hearty stews, wood-fired cooking, and cozy, one-pot meals. I brought my best friends on board to make this a shared journal of our adventures. I work closely with Maya to develop our main courses and do most of the writing for our posts.