This German Apple Cake is a delightful old-fashioned treat that highlights the natural sweetness of apples with a soft, spiced cake base and a simple cinnamon-sugar topping. Whether you serve it at a fall gathering or enjoy a slice with your afternoon coffee, this moist and tender cake is pure comfort on a plate.
🧁 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Wholesome – Made with basic pantry staples and fresh apples.
- Moist and Flavorful – Sour cream adds richness, while cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for potlucks, brunches, or cozy nights in.
- Freezer-Friendly – This cake freezes beautifully for later enjoyment.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 3 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced (about 3 medium)
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
👨🍳 How to Make German Apple Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or 9-inch springform pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream, starting and ending with the dry.
Step 2: Assemble the Cake
Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan.
Layer with half the apple slices.
Add the remaining batter, then arrange the rest of the apples on top.
Mix topping sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the apples.
Step 3: Bake
Bake for 40–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 4: Serve
Serve warm or at room temperature. Add whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired!
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Classic Combo: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Brunch Ready: Pair with hot coffee and bacon for a sweet-savory brunch.
- Dessert Plating: Top with powdered sugar and a cinnamon stick for presentation.
- Holiday Touch: Add sugared cranberries or a drizzle of honey for festive flair.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Room Temp: Store covered at room temp for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Extend freshness up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat: Microwave slices for 15–20 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F for 5–8 minutes.
🍎 German Apple Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish or 9-inch springform pan
- 2 Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 3 cups apples peeled and thinly sliced (about 3 medium)
- For the Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish or springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream, beginning and ending with dry.
- Step 2: Assemble the Cake
- Spread half the batter into the prepared pan.
- Layer with half of the apple slices.
- Add the remaining batter and smooth evenly. Top with remaining apples.
- Mix ¼ cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon; sprinkle over the apples.
- Step 3: Bake
- Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely or serve warm.
- Step 4: Serve
- Enjoy as is, or top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert.
Notes
🔍 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: ~310
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~13g
- Sugar: ~28g
- Protein: ~3g
- Fiber: ~2g
🔥 Pro Tips
- Choose Firm Apples: Softer apples break down too much during baking.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: For an extra light crumb.
- Use Room Temp Ingredients: Ensures smooth batter and even baking.
- Let It Rest: Flavor deepens when cake sits overnight.
🔄 Variations & Add-Ons
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for crunch.
- Streusel Topping: Replace cinnamon sugar with a crumbly streusel made from butter, brown sugar, and flour.
- Glazed Finish: Drizzle with a vanilla or caramel glaze after baking.
- Apple-Cherry Fusion: Add a handful of dried cherries or cranberries for a tangy twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
🔍 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: ~310
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~13g
- Sugar: ~28g
- Protein: ~3g
- Fiber: ~2g
❓ FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes! Pears or peaches work well in this recipe, though baking times may vary slightly.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake it the day before and store it covered. It tastes even better the next day!
Can I freeze German Apple Cake?
Yes. Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes.
✅ Final Thoughts
German Apple Cake is a nostalgic, easy-to-make dessert that brings comfort with every bite. The soft crumb, sweet apples, and spiced topping make it ideal for fall and beyond. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or keeping it simple at home, this cake is sure to earn a spot in your go-to recipe list.
So grab those apples and get baking—this cozy treat won’t disappoint! 🍏🍰
