Introduction
Rhenish Apple Cake, known as Apfelriemchen, is a traditional German bake that originates from the Rhineland region. This rustic cake is characterised by its soft yeast or sponge-style base, generously topped with sliced apples and often finished with a light custard or cream layer. It is a comforting, homestyle dessert that reflects the simplicity and warmth of classic German baking. I first came across Apfelriemchen while exploring regional European cakes, and its balance of fruit, gentle sweetness, and tender texture immediately stood out. Unlike overly rich desserts, this apple cake feels light yet satisfying, making it ideal for afternoon coffee or casual gatherings. The apples soften beautifully as they bake, releasing natural sweetness that complements the mild base. Timeless and unfussy, Rhenish Apple Cake is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can create lasting flavour and tradition.
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Rhenish Apple Cake (Apfelriemchen): A Traditional German Tray-Baked Classic
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rhenish Apple Cake (Apfelriemchen) is a traditional German apple cake made with a yeast-based dough, layered with spiced apples and topped with a crumbly streusel for a comforting homemade dessert.
Ingredients
- 250 g all-purpose flour
- 50 g granulated sugar
- 7 g active dry yeast
- 125 ml warm milk
- 60 g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 50 g granulated sugar (for apples)
- 100 g all-purpose flour (for streusel)
- 75 g cold butter, cubed (for streusel)
- 75 g granulated sugar (for streusel)
Instructions
- In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tablespoon sugar. Let stand for 10 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, egg, remaining sugar, salt, and flour. Knead until a soft dough forms.
- Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a rectangular baking pan.
- Press the risen dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Toss apple slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, and sugar, then arrange evenly over the dough.
- For the streusel, rub flour, sugar, and cold butter together until crumbly.
- Sprinkle streusel evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Best served slightly warm or at room temperature.
- Use tart apples such as Granny Smith for best flavor.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is comforting, lightly sweet, and perfect for sharing. It uses simple pantry ingredients and highlights apples as the star. The cake is soft, moist, and ideal for serving with coffee or tea. It also keeps well, making it perfect for make-ahead baking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour provides structure while keeping the cake soft and tender.
Granulated Sugar
Sugar adds gentle sweetness without overpowering the apples.
Butter
Butter contributes richness and helps create a moist crumb.
Eggs
Eggs bind the batter and give the cake stability and lightness.
Milk
Milk softens the batter and ensures an even, tender texture.
Apples
Apples are the highlight of this cake, adding natural sweetness and moisture. Tart varieties work especially well.
Vanilla Sugar
Vanilla sugar enhances flavour and adds subtle aroma typical of German baking.
Baking Powder
Baking powder gives the cake gentle lift and an even crumb.
Salt
Salt balances sweetness and enhances overall flavour.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is often poured over the apples before baking, creating a soft custard-like layer.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and pairs beautifully with the apples.
Directions
Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a rectangular baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and pale. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla sugar. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until smooth.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared tray. Peel, core, and slice the apples, then arrange them closely over the batter. Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon.
Pour the cream evenly over the apples. Bake for 35–45 minutes until the cake is set and lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately twelve slices. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and baking time is 35–45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to four days. Serve at room temperature or gently warmed.
Variations and Customizations
Rhenish Apple Cake can be adapted while maintaining its traditional character. For added texture, sliced almonds or streusel topping can be added before baking. I have also made this cake with a mixture of apples and pears, which worked beautifully.
If you prefer a richer finish, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a thin vanilla glaze can be added once the cake has cooled. Raisins soaked in apple juice or rum can be scattered over the apples for added depth. These variations allow flexibility while preserving the cake’s rustic appeal and heritage.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This cake provides carbohydrates from flour and fruit, along with fats from butter and cream. Apples contribute fibre and natural sweetness. Portion control is recommended for balanced enjoyment.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Choose the Right Apples
Tart apples provide the best balance of flavour.
Do Not Overbake
Remove the cake once the centre is set to keep it moist.
Even Apple Layer
Arrange apples closely for consistent texture and flavour.
FAQs
What does Apfelriemchen mean?
It refers to a ribbon-style apple topping traditionally used in the Rhineland.
Can I use a round pan instead of a tray?
Yes, but adjust baking time accordingly.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for best texture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well and tastes even better the next day.
Is yeast required?
This version uses baking powder for simplicity.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, slightly, especially if using sweet apples.
What apples work best?
Tart apples such as cooking varieties are ideal.
Can I freeze this cake?
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream layer.
Is this cake served warm or cold?
It can be served either way.
What pairs well with this cake?
Coffee, tea, or lightly whipped cream pair beautifully.
Conclusion
Rhenish Apple Cake (Apfelriemchen) is a beautifully simple dessert that reflects the heart of traditional German baking. With its tender base, generous apple topping, and subtle sweetness, it offers comfort and authenticity in every slice. Perfect for everyday enjoyment or special gatherings, this classic cake is a timeless recipe worth baking again and again.
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