Authentic German Apple Cake (Versunkener Apfelkuchen)
This classic German apple cake is simple, nostalgic, and filled with warmth. Tender apples sink gently into a buttery, light cake that’s perfect for coffee breaks or cozy family gatherings. A dusting of powdered sugar makes it beautifully rustic and effortlessly elegant.
Equipment
- Springform Pan (9 or 10 inch)
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Spatula
- Cooling Rack
- Sifter
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 4 small apples peeled, cored, and quartered
- ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla sugar or vanilla extract for aromatic flavor
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice keeps apples from browning
- 3 large eggs for structure and color
- 1½ cups cake flour light and tender texture
- 2 tsp baking powder for gentle rise
- ¼ tsp salt enhances flavor
- 2 Tbsp milk adds smoothness to the batter
- powdered sugar for dusting the top
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9- or 10-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- Peel, core, and quarter the apples. Score each quarter lengthwise without cutting through to help them bake evenly.
- In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add sugar and mix until pale and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla sugar and lemon juice until smooth and silky.
- In another bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry mixture to wet ingredients alternately with milk. Mix just until combined.
- Spread batter evenly in prepared pan. Arrange apple quarters, sliced side up, pressing them gently into the batter.
- Bake for 45 minutes on the lower rack until golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan, then transfer to a rack. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Known in Germany as 'Versunkener Apfelkuchen' (Sunken Apple Cake), this recipe is a beloved staple during 'Kaffee und Kuchen'—the traditional coffee and cake hour. Its rustic simplicity and comforting aroma make it timeless.