This Classic Apple Cake features a rich, buttery base layered with juicy apple wedges marinated in vanilla and lemon, topped with a crunchy vanilla butter streusel. The combination of tender apples and the crisp, sweet topping makes this cake a comforting and satisfying dessert. The vanilla enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, while the streusel adds a delightful texture contrast that elevates this traditional cake to a gourmet level.
Why You’ll Love This: The aroma of baking apples mixed with vanilla and butter creates an inviting scent that fills the kitchen, promising a delicious treat. This cake strikes the perfect balance between the moist, fruit-laden base and the rich, crumbly topping. It’s a versatile dessert that fits perfectly into any meal, from a cozy family dinner to an elegant afternoon tea. Additionally, the simplicity of the ingredients and preparation means this cake is both delightful to make and eat.
Perfect Occasion: This apple cake is perfect for a wide range of occasions. Serve it at autumn gatherings to celebrate the harvest, at holiday meals, or bring it to potlucks and picnics. It’s also ideal for afternoon coffee breaks or as a sweet weekend treat. This cake’s universal appeal makes it a welcome addition to any dessert table, especially during the colder months.
Decoration Tips: For a beautiful presentation, dust the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. This not only adds an extra layer of sweetness but also makes the cake look more elegant. If you’re serving this cake at a special event, consider pairing each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A few fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance its visual appeal and flavor.
Ingredients:
- For the Butter Sprinkles:
- 125 g cold butter
- 200 g flour
- 100 g sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla sugar
- For the Dough:
- 150 g cold butter
- 80 g sugar
- 250 g flour
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar
- 1/2 pack baking powder
- For the Apple Filling:
- 800 g apples, peeled, cored, and cut into wedges
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp vanilla sugar
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a 26 cm springform pan with baking paper and butter the edges.
- Marinate the Apples:
- Toss the apple wedges with lemon juice and vanilla sugar in a bowl. Set aside to marinate, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Make the Butter Sprinkles:
- Combine cold butter, flour, sugar, and vanilla sugar in a mixing device. Knead until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In the same mixing device, knead cold butter, sugar, flour, vanilla sugar, and baking powder until the dough comes together.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Press the dough into the prepared springform pan, creating a base and slightly up the sides to hold the filling.
- Evenly distribute the marinated apple slices over the dough.
- Sprinkle the butter crumble mixture on top of the apples.
- Bake:
- Place the cake on the second lowest rack of the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the apples are tender.
- Cool and Serve:
- After baking, let the cake cool on a rack. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy this delightful Classic Apple Cake with Vanilla and Butter Streusel, a comforting treat that combines the timeless flavors of apples and vanilla in a beautifully simple yet elegant way!
