Name: German Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 3–4 apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional); 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk or sour cream; Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or whipped cream for serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is moist, lightly spiced, and filled with apple flavor in every bite. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare—no fancy techniques required. The apples create a soft, juicy texture, while the cake itself is just sweet enough without being overly rich. It’s a timeless recipe that feels comforting and wholesome, making it a wonderful addition to both casual and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg (optional)
Eggs
Unsalted butter (softened)
Milk or sour cream
Vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Optional: powdered sugar (for dusting) or whipped cream for serving

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or round springform pan.
Peel, core, and slice apples thinly. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk (or sour cream) to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Arrange half the apple slices over the batter. Spread the remaining batter on top, then layer with the rest of the apples.
Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar over the top for extra flavor.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool before dusting with powdered sugar or serving with whipped cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 10–12 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45–50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch.
Swap some of the flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
Drizzle with a light glaze instead of powdered sugar.
Stir raisins into the batter for a traditional German touch.
Use cardamom in place of nutmeg for a slightly different spice profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes.
This cake can also be frozen (without powdered sugar topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

What apples are best for German apple cake?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold their shape and add a good balance of tartness.

Can I leave the apple peels on?

Yes, if you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave the peels on.

Is German apple cake the same as American apple cake?

They are similar, but German apple cake is often less sweet and emphasizes the apples more than the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Can I use sour cream instead of milk?

Yes, sour cream or plain yogurt makes the cake extra moist.

Does this cake need frosting?

No, it’s typically served plain, with powdered sugar, or with whipped cream.

Can I bake it in a bundt pan?

Yes, just adjust the baking time to 50–60 minutes and check doneness with a toothpick.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour substitute.

How do I keep the apples from sinking?

Slice them thinly and layer them evenly; the batter will rise around them as it bakes.

What do I serve with German apple cake?

It pairs well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Conclusion

German apple cake is a simple, rustic dessert that brings out the natural sweetness of apples with a tender, spiced cake base. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether served with coffee or as a holiday dessert, this cake is sure to become a comforting favorite in your baking rotation.