Apple Kuchen
Apple Kuchen is a delightful German dessert that perfectly captures the essence of autumn with its warm, comforting flavors. This traditional recipe combines tender cake-like layers with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples for a treat that is sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dessert to enjoy with a cup of tea or want to bring a taste of fall to your next gathering, this Apple Kuchen recipe is a must-try.
**Apple Kuchen**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4-5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, cold butter pieces, baking powder, and salt. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky.
4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
5. Arrange the sliced apples in a single layer over the dough, slightly overlapping them. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the apples.
6. Bake the Apple Kuchen in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the apples are tender.
7. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust the top of the Apple Kuchen with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
8. Serve the Apple Kuchen warm, either on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Enjoy this delicious Apple Kuchen with your loved ones and savor the flavors of fall in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy dessert, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection. The combination of tender cake, sweet apples, and warming spices is a true delight for the senses. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of traditional German baking right in your own kitchen. Happy baking!