German Apple Cake with Cream Filling and Streusel

 


Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Grease your springform pan.

Step 2: Make the Base

  1. Separate the eggs, reserving whites for the filling.

  2. Beat yolks with sugar until pale and fluffy.

  3. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt.

  4. Stir butter into yolk mixture, then fold in flour mix until dough forms.

  5. Press dough into the springform pan, leaving a slight rim.

Step 3: Cream Filling

  1. Beat egg whites until stiff. Slowly add sugar until glossy.

  2. Add vanilla, fold in cornstarch and sour cream. Set aside.

Step 4: Apples

  1. Peel, core, and slice apples.

  2. In a skillet, sauté with butter, brown sugar, and lemon juice for 5–7 minutes. Let cool.

Step 5: Streusel

  1. Mix flour, sugar, and cinnamon.

  2. Rub in cold butter until crumbly.

Step 6: Assemble & Bake

  1. Spread cream filling over the base.

  2. Arrange apple slices on top.

  3. Sprinkle with streusel.

  4. Bake 40 minutes until golden and set.

Cool slightly, then release from pan and let rest on a wire rack.

What to Serve with Apple Cake

  • A dollop of whipped cream.

  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream (oh yes!!).

  • A drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips for the Best Cake

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balance.

  • Don’t overbake—the cream layer should stay soft and custardy.

  • Make extra streusel if you love a thicker, crunchier topping (I always do!).

Storage Instructions

  • Store at room temperature for 1 day.

  • Refrigerate (covered) for up to 4 days.

  • Freeze slices individually for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Yogurt makes the filling lighter and slightly tangier.

Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely—bake the day before and refrigerate overnight. The flavors deepen beautifully.

Can I skip the streusel?
You could, but trust me, the streusel makes this cake unforgettable.

Conclusion

This German apple cake is one of those bakes you’ll want to come back to again and again. Comforting, creamy, crunchy, and fruity—it has everything you could wish for in a homemade dessert.