Craving a slice of comfort and tradition? Dive into the delightful world of German apple custard cake recipes. This beloved dessert is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy fall and winter days. Passed down through generations, this cherished family recipe combines the sweetness of apples, the richness of custard, and the crunch of a streusel topping for a flavor explosion that will transport you to old-world Germany.
With the aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples wafting through your kitchen, you’ll feel like a master baker creating a masterpiece. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a craving for something sweet, this German apple custard cake is a must-try. Get ready to impress your taste buds and loved ones with this classic recipe that never fails to bring joy and warmth to the table.
Ingredients
Let’s dive into the essential ingredients that make this German apple custard cake a special treat. Below are the components needed for each layer of this delightful dessert.
Cake Base
- 175 grams all-purpose flour
- 100 grams butter
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch of salt
- 60 grams sugar
- Butter for greasing
Custard Filling
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup cream
- 2 packets of vanilla pudding powder or 8 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 70 grams sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 tablespoons cold butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
When preparing my German apple custard cake, you will need a few essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Here’s a list of the equipment you’ll need before you dive into making this delightful dessert:
- 9-inch springform pan: This pan is perfect for baking the cake as it allows for easy removal without damaging the delicate layers.
- Mixing bowls: Have a few mixing bowls on hand for preparing the cake batter, custard filling, and streusel topping separately.
- Electric mixer: An electric mixer will make it easier to achieve the desired consistency when beating the cake batter and whipping the custard.
- Whisk: A whisk is essential for mixing the custard ingredients and ensuring a smooth, lump-free texture.
- Saucepan: You’ll need a saucepan to make the custard layer on the stovetop.
- Parchment paper: Line your springform pan with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove.
- Cooling rack: A cooling rack is essential for allowing the cake to cool properly once it’s out of the oven.
- Apple corer and slicer: To prepare the apples for the cake, an apple corer and slicer will make the task quicker and easier.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success, so have measuring cups and spoons on hand for precision.
- Oven: Of course, you’ll need an oven to bake this delicious German apple custard cake to perfection.
Having these essential tools at your disposal will help you create a scrumptious German apple custard cake that everyone will love.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Cake Base
To begin, preheat the oven to 400F. Combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a food processor. Add cold butter and pulse until it forms fine crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together whole milk and egg, then pour over the flour mixture in the food processor. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and spread the batter evenly. Arrange thin slices of peeled apples on top in a circular pattern, starting from the edges. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the apples and bake for 15 minutes.
Making the Custard Filling
Next, whisk together heavy cream, flour, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to prepare the custard. Once the cake base has baked for 15 minutes, pour the custard evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle sliced almonds and dried currants on top at this stage. Lower the oven temperature to 350F and bake the cake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and springs back when touched.
Assembling the Streusel Topping
Lastly, to make the streusel topping, combine flour, sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Mix until it forms a crumbly texture. Sprinkle the streusel over the baked custard layer. Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the streusel is crispy and lightly browned. Once baked, allow the cake to cool on a wire rack before serving for the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Baking Instructions
Baking the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 325F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by spraying it with non-stick spray.
- In a bowl, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and set it aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk 1 large egg, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of vegetable oil, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
- Pour a portion of the batter into the pan, layer sliced apples, then top with the remaining batter.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the custard by whisking heavy cream, flour, sugar, egg, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Once the cake base is baked, pour the custard over the top, sprinkle with sliced almonds and dried currants if desired.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350F, bake the cake for an additional 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan, release the springform, and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Serving and Presentation
When it comes to serving and presenting a delightful German apple custard cake, there are a few key points to keep in mind to truly elevate this traditional dessert.
How to Serve German Apple Custard Cake
To serve German apple custard cake, slice the cake into generous portions using a sharp knife. The combination of moist apple slices, creamy custard, and crunchy streusel makes every bite a delight. For a cozy serving experience, warm the cake slightly before serving. Pair each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch. Enjoy this cake with a piping hot cup of coffee or a fragrant tea to enhance its flavors.
Garnishing Ideas
For a visually appealing presentation, consider garnishing your German apple custard cake with a few artistic touches. Dust the top of the cake with a sprinkling of powdered sugar for a classic finish. Arrange a few fresh apple slices or curls of lemon zest on each slice for a pop of color. You can also drizzle a touch of caramel sauce over the cake or serve it alongside for a decadent twist. A final sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a few whole cinnamon sticks placed strategically on the platter adds a festive touch to the presentation. Experiment with different garnishing ideas to personalize your German apple custard cake and make it even more irresistible.
Storage Tips
After you have enjoyed this delectable German apple custard cake, you might wonder how to best store any leftovers for future indulgence. Here are some essential storage tips to ensure that your cake stays fresh and delicious:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the cake within one or two days, it’s best to store it at room temperature. Ensure it is covered with a cake dome or plastic wrap to protect it from drying out.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, especially in warmer climates, refrigeration is recommended. Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its moisture.
- Freezing: Should you wish to freeze portions of the cake for later enjoyment, ensure it is tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, the cake can last for up to three months in the freezer.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy the frozen cake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps retain the cake’s texture and flavors.
By following these storage tips, you can savor the delightful flavors of your German apple custard cake even days after it was freshly baked. Whether at room temperature, refrigerated, or frozen, your cake will continue to bring joy with every scrumptious bite.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the delightful world of German apple custard cake recipes. From the comforting blend of apples, custard, and streusel topping to the warm aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples filling your kitchen, this traditional dessert is a true gem. By mastering the preparation steps and following the storage tips shared, you can savor the flavors of this cake for days to come. Embrace the old-world charm and richness of German baking with each slice of this decadent treat. Happy baking and indulging in the sweetness of German apple custard cake!
