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Moist German Apple Cake with Vanilla Glaze

moist German apple cake - featured image

A rustic, forgiving, and incredibly moist apple cake with a tender crumb and a creamy vanilla glaze. This recipe uses simple ingredients and is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 45 medium apples, peeled and sliced (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)
  • 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • 23 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes).
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Scrape down sides of bowl.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients on low speed. Mix just until flour disappears.
  6. Peel, core, and slice apples. Toss with a little lemon juice if not baking immediately.
  7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Spread apple slices evenly over batter. Pour remaining batter over apples.
  8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
  9. Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
  11. Drizzle glaze over the cooled cake. Serve immediately or store.

Notes

Room temperature ingredients are crucial for proper creaming and emulsion. Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to avoid a tough cake. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are recommended as they hold their shape well. The cake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: German apple cake, moist apple cake, vanilla glaze, easy dessert, fall baking, comfort food, homemade cake