Dive into the heart of German baking with a delightful and sweet Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake. This recipe combines tart apples with a soft, moist cake base, topped with a beautiful honey glaze for a perfect meld of flavors.
This recipe calls for sweet tart apples which are a combination of sweet and tart flavors that gives the cake a balanced taste. They are not commonly found in every home, but can be easily found in any supermarket. The honey used for glazing should be of high quality for the best taste and aroma.
Ingredients for Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake
Unsalted butter: Used as the fat in the cake, it gives the cake its rich, buttery flavor.
All purpose flour: The base of the cake, it provides structure.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cake.
Lemon zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy note to balance the sweetness.
Eggs: Helps to bind the ingredients together and adds moisture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cake.
Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
Baking powder: A leavening agent which makes the cake rise.
Sweet tart apples: Adds a combination of sweet and tart flavors to the cake.
Honey: Used for the glaze, it adds a sweet, floral taste.
One reader, Kass Daily says:
This honey-glazed German apple cake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet apples and the honey glaze is simply divine. The cake is moist and flavorful, and the aroma while baking is heavenly. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. Highly recommend trying it out!
Key Techniques for Crafting Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake
How to preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 335°F (170°C) before starting the recipe to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking.
How to cream the sugar, butter, and lemon zest: Use an electric hand mixer to beat the sugar, butter, and lemon zest together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
How to make a well in the center of the creamed sugar and butter: Create a well in the center of the creamed sugar and butter mixture to add the eggs, vanilla, and salt.
How to sift in the flour and baking powder: Sift the flour and baking powder into the batter and then beat just enough to incorporate, ensuring not to overmix.
How to transfer the batter to the prepared tart pan: Use a rubber spatula to transfer the batter to the prepared tart pan and spread it evenly, starting from the center and working towards the outer edges.
How to cut lobes off of the apples: Cut the lobes off the apples and discard the cores before slicing them thinly.
How to thinly slice the apples: Stick a skewer crosswise through the flat side of each apple wedge, then thinly slice lengthwise, stopping when you hit the skewer to prevent cutting all the way through.
How to arrange the apples in a circle pattern over the batter: Arrange the thinly sliced apples in a circular pattern over the batter and gently push them in to submerge slightly.
How to bake the cake: Bake the cake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out almost completely clean.
How to mix the honey and water: In a small bowl, mix together the honey and water to create a glaze for the cake.
How to brush the honey mixture over the top of the warm cake: Use a pastry brush to gently brush the honey mixture over the top of the warm cake.
How to serve the cake: The cake can be served immediately, but it is recommended to let it sit covered at room temperature overnight, as the apples will infuse the cake with their flavor.
How To Make Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake
Moist, dense, and perfect for tea time, this German apple cake is brushed with a honey glaze for a decadent fruit dessert made of simple ingredients.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½sticksunsalted butter,softened, plus more for greasing
- 1½cupsall purpose flour,(185 g), plus more for dusting
- 1cupsugar,(200 g)
- 1½tsplemon zest
- 2large eggs
- 1½tspvanilla extract
- 1½tspkosher salt
- 1½tspbaking powder
- 2sweet tart apples,such as honeycrips
- 1tbsphoney
- 1½tspwater
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 335 degrees. Grease a 9-inch tart pan, with a removable base, with butter, then dust with flour, turning to coat evenly and tapping out the excess.
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In a large bowl, cream the sugar, butter, and lemon zest together with an electric hand mixer for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
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Make a well in the center of the creamed sugar and butter. Add the eggs, vanilla, and salt to the well. Beat to combine.
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Sift in the flour and baking powder, then beat just to incorporate. The batter will be thick and sticky.
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Using a rubber spatula, transfer the batter to the prepared tart pan and spread in an even layer, starting at the center and working toward the outer edges.
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Cut lobes off of the apples, then discard the cores.
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Stick a skewer crosswise through the flat side of each apple wedge, just deep enough so the skewer is not exposed; this will prevent the knife from cutting all the way through the apple.
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Set the apples flat-side down and thinly slice lengthwise, stopping your knife when you hit the skewer. Remove the skewers.
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Arrange the apples in a circle pattern over the batter and gently push in to submerge slightly.
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Bake the cake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out almost completely clean. The cake will brown around the edges before it’s done.
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In a small bowl, mix together the honey and water.
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Brush the honey mixture over the top of the warm cake.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 258.69kcal
- Fat: 12.46g
- Saturated Fat: 7.54g
- Trans Fat: 0.47g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.29g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.65g
- Carbohydrates: 34.30g
- Fiber: 1.27g
- Sugar: 21.02g
- Protein: 2.92g
- Cholesterol: 61.37mg
- Sodium: 203.63mg
- Calcium: 54.97mg
- Potassium: 69.01mg
- Iron: 1.00mg
- Vitamin A: 111.41µg
- Vitamin C: 0.33mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake
When arranging the apples on the batter, try to overlap them slightly. This not only creates a beautiful pattern on the cake, but also ensures that every slice will have a good amount of apple. Additionally, when brushing the honey mixture over the cake, be sure to cover all the apples and the exposed cake surface. This will give the cake a beautiful glossy finish and add an extra layer of flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to save time and ensure you have everything you need.
Use a food processor: Consider using a food processor to quickly mix the batter and save time on manual mixing.
Pre-slice the apples: Pre-slice the apples ahead of time to save time during the assembly process.
Bake in advance: Consider baking the cake in advance and allowing the flavors to develop overnight for a time-saving make-ahead option.
Multi-task: While the cake is baking, use the time to clean up and prepare other dishes to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the recipe, while also being a suitable vegan alternative to butter.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and extra nutrients to the cake, making it a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the cake, and it also provides a more natural sweetener option.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can provide a similar citrusy brightness to the cake, while adding a slightly different flavor profile.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cake, making it a suitable vegan alternative to eggs.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can add a unique nutty flavor to the cake, providing a delicious alternative to vanilla.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of saltiness and enhance the overall flavor of the cake.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder by adding an acidic ingredient such as lemon juice or vinegar to activate it.
sweet tart apples - Substitute with granny smith apples: Granny Smith apples have a similar tartness and firm texture, making them a suitable substitute for sweet tart apples in the recipe.
honey - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar can provide a similar level of sweetness and stickiness to the cake, serving as a vegan-friendly alternative to honey.
water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can add a hint of fruity sweetness and moisture to the cake, enhancing its flavor profile.
How to Beautifully Present Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the honey-glazed German apple cake, focus on creating an elegant and refined plating. Use a large, white, round plate to showcase the cake beautifully. The contrast of the golden cake against the white plate will create a visually stunning presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the cake with delicate edible flowers. Choose flowers that complement the flavors of the cake, such as apple blossoms or lavender, to add a pop of color and a subtle floral aroma.
Incorporate a drizzle design: Enhance the visual appeal by incorporating a decorative drizzle on the plate. Use a small squeeze bottle to create a honey drizzle in a circular or zigzag pattern around the cake, adding a touch of artistry to the presentation.
Accompany with a dollop of whipped cream: Serve the honey-glazed German apple cake with a small dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side of the plate. The creamy addition will provide a delightful contrast to the cake and elevate the overall indulgence of the dessert.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Before serving, delicately dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar to create an elegant finishing touch. This subtle addition will enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of sweetness to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making German Apple Cake
Electric hand mixer: Used to cream the sugar, butter, and lemon zest together until light and fluffy, and to beat the eggs, vanilla, and salt into the batter.
Sifter: Used to sift the flour and baking powder into the batter to ensure a smooth and lump-free consistency.
Rubber spatula: Used to transfer the batter to the tart pan and spread it evenly, as well as for folding and scraping the batter.
Tart pan with removable base: Used to bake the cake and easily remove it from the pan once it's done.
Skewer: Used to pierce the apple wedges to prevent the knife from cutting all the way through the apples when slicing.
Small bowl: Used to mix together the honey and water for brushing over the warm cake.
Pastry brush: Used to brush the honey mixture over the top of the warm cake.
Storing and Freezing Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake
Let the honey-glazed german apple cake cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store the cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. The apples will infuse the cake with their flavor when left to sit covered at room temperature overnight.
If you want to keep the cake fresh for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating.
To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
When you're ready to serve the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can reheat the cake in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh it before serving.
If you have leftover slices of cake, you can wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
How To Reheat Leftover Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake
To reheat leftover honey-glazed german apple cake, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will gently warm the cake without drying it out or causing the honey glaze to burn.
Place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you have a particularly large slice or several pieces, arrange them in a single layer with a bit of space between each one to allow for even heating.
Loosely cover the apple cake with aluminum foil. This will help to trap moisture and prevent the cake from drying out as it reheats. Be sure to tent the foil slightly so that it doesn't stick to the honey glaze.
Place the covered cake in the preheated oven and allow it to warm for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of your slice(s). If you're reheating a particularly large piece or multiple slices, you may need to add a few extra minutes to ensure that the cake is heated through.
For a quicker option, you can also reheat individual slices of german apple cake in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval to avoid overheating.
If you find that the honey glaze has lost some of its shine or become slightly sticky after reheating, you can refresh it by warming a tablespoon of honey in the microwave for a few seconds and then gently brushing it over the surface of the cake.
For a crisp, caramelized edge on your reheated apple cake, try placing a slice under the broiler for a minute or two after warming it in the oven or microwave. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, and remove it from the heat as soon as the edges begin to bubble and caramelize.
Fascinating Fact About Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake
The German Apple Cake recipe is a traditional dessert that originated in Germany. It is often enjoyed during the fall season when apples are in abundance. This cake is known for its moist and tender crumb, with a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors from the apples. The honey glaze adds a beautiful shine and a touch of sweetness to the cake. It's a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Is Making German Apple Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this honey-glazed German apple cake recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, making it budget-friendly. The use of apples and honey adds nutritional value and natural sweetness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it an affordable dessert option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its simplicity, delicious flavor, and economical nature.
Is This German Apple Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The honey-glazed German apple cake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:
- High sugar content from the added sugar and honey glaze
- Significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat
- Refined all-purpose flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives
- Limited nutritional value from the apples, as they are used primarily for flavor and texture
However, this cake can be enjoyed as an occasional treat within a balanced diet.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and opt for a lighter honey glaze or omit it altogether
- Replace a portion of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce to maintain moisture while reducing fat content
- Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond flour to increase fiber and nutrient density
- Incorporate additional fruits, such as berries or pears, to boost the cake's nutritional value and natural sweetness
- Serve smaller portions and pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added protein and healthy fats
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of this classic German apple cake while still preserving its delightful flavor and texture.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful German Apple Cake
The honey-glazed German apple cake recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors. The use of fresh apples and a hint of lemon zest adds a refreshing twist to the classic apple cake. The honey glaze adds a beautiful shine and a touch of sweetness to the cake, enhancing its overall appeal. The method of arranging the apple slices in a circular pattern not only creates a visually stunning presentation but also ensures that each slice of cake contains a perfect balance of apple in every bite. This recipe is a wonderful choice for a cozy afternoon treat or a delightful dessert to impress guests.
Enhance Your Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake
Why trust this Honey-Glazed German Apple Cake Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful blend of traditional German flavors and a touch of sweetness from the honey. The combination of sweet tart apples and lemon zest adds a refreshing and tangy twist to the classic apple cake. The methodical instructions ensure a foolproof baking experience, and the honey glaze adds a final touch of decadence. Trust in the simplicity and elegance of this recipe to create a delectable German apple cake that will surely impress your taste buds.
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