Rhenish Apple Cake
Rhenish Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that showcases the sweet and tart flavors of apples. Originating from the Rhine region in Germany, this cake is known for its buttery crust and soft apple filling. It makes for a perfect treat any time of the day, whether it’s for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert after dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Using simple ingredients, Rhenish Apple Cake brings comfort and joy with every bite. The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a warm, inviting aroma in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use fresh apples, making it a great choice during apple season.
How to Make Rhenish Apple Cake
Making Rhenish Apple Cake is straightforward and rewarding! Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious cake.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4-5 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a pie dish or springform pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the dough forms. Reserve about 1/3 of the dough for the lattice crust later.
- Press the remaining dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, toss the apples with lemon juice and cinnamon, then spread them evenly over the crust.
- Roll out the reserved dough and cut it into strips. Lay the strips over the apples in a lattice pattern.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Rhenish Apple Cake
Serve Rhenish Apple Cake slightly warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
How to Store Rhenish Apple Cake
Store any leftover Rhenish Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about two days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to a month; just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Tips to Make Rhenish Apple Cake
- Make sure your butter is softened to mix easily with the dry ingredients.
- Using a variety of apples can add different flavors and textures to your cake.
- If you like it extra sweet, add more sugar to the apple filling.
- For a touch of extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
Variation
You can customize Rhenish Apple Cake by adding nuts or raisins to the apple filling for a little crunch and extra flavor. Some people also like to sprinkle oats over the lattice crust for added texture.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different type of flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may change the texture slightly.
Q2: What kind of apples are best for this cake?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well since they hold their shape during baking.
Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
Enjoy baking this Rhenish Apple Cake, and savor the delicious flavors it brings to your table!
