Rhenish Apple Cake
Rhenish Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with a buttery crust. This classic recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy evening at home. The layers of tender apples nestled in flaky pastry make this cake a comforting treat everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it uses simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Second, the flavor of the tart apples, mixed with cinnamon and lemon juice, creates a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness of the cake. Lastly, Rhenish Apple Cake is a wonderful way to use up apples, especially during apple season.
How to Make Rhenish Apple Cake
Making Rhenish Apple Cake is a straightforward process that leads to a scrumptious dessert. Here’s how you can prepare it:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups sliced apples (tart variety)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together.
- Add the softened butter, milk, and 1 egg to the dry mixture, and mix until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half. Roll out one half and fit it into a greased pie pan.
- In another bowl, toss the apple slices with cinnamon and lemon juice, then pour them into the crust.
- Roll out the second half of the dough and cut it into strips to create a lattice top over the apple filling.
- Brush the lattice top with the egg wash for a nice golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown.
- Let the cake cool before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
How to Serve Rhenish Apple Cake
You can serve Rhenish Apple Cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving can add a delightful touch.
How to Store Rhenish Apple Cake
Store any leftover Rhenish Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. To enjoy it later, simply reheat it in the oven or enjoy it cold!
Tips to Make Rhenish Apple Cake
- Use a mix of tart apples, like Granny Smith or McIntosh, for the best flavor.
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
- If you want a sweeter cake, you can add more sugar to the filling.
- Don’t overmix the dough; mix just until combined for a tender crust.
Variation
You can add nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the apple filling for an added crunch. A sprinkle of nutmeg along with the cinnamon can also give a warm, spicy flavor to the cake.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any variety of apples you like. Just make sure they are tart to balance the sweetness of the cake.
2. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.
3. Is it necessary to use an egg wash?
While the egg wash gives the lattice top a beautiful golden color, you can skip it if you prefer. The cake will still taste great!
