Apfelmohnkuchen Apple Poppy Seed Cake

When it comes to festive baking during the holiday season, nothing quite captures the essence of Austrian Christmas traditions like a warm and comforting slice of Apfelmohnkuchen, or Apple Poppy Seed Cake. This delightful dessert combines the delicate sweetness of apples with the earthy richness of poppy seeds, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that will surely impress your family and guests. Whether you are looking to add a touch of Austrian flair to your holiday table or simply craving a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of tea, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your repertoire.

**Apfelmohnkuchen Apple Poppy Seed Cake**

**Ingredients:**

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup poppy seeds
– 1/4 cup apricot jam

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.

3. Add the softened butter to the dry mixture and use your hands or a pastry cutter to blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and milk together until well combined.

5. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Spread half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing it out evenly.

7. Arrange the thinly sliced apples on top of the batter in a decorative pattern.

8. Sprinkle the poppy seeds over the apple slices, ensuring an even distribution.

9. Carefully spoon the remaining batter over the apples and poppy seeds, spreading it out to cover the filling.

10. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

11. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

12. In a small saucepan, heat the apricot jam over low heat until it becomes smooth and liquid.

13. Brush the warm jam over the top of the cooled cake to create a shiny glaze.

14. Slice the Apfelmohnkuchen into wedges and serve either warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful blend of apples and poppy seeds in every bite!

This Apfelmohnkuchen recipe is a wonderful way to bring the flavors and traditions of Austrian Christmas baking into your own home. The combination of sweet apples, nutty poppy seeds, and tender cake will surely leave your loved ones asking for more. So, next time you’re in the mood for a cozy and delicious dessert, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!