Description
This traditional German Apfelkuchen is a heartwarming masterpiece that blends a buttery shortcrust base, a luxurious vanilla custard, and fresh, tart apples. Topped with a crunchy hazelnut streusel, it offers a symphony of textures and comforting autumn spices. Perfect for slow mornings or family gatherings, this elevated dessert brings the nostalgic essence of a European bakery into your home.
Ingredients
1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
A pinch of fine sea salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
1 large egg
3 large tart apples, peeled and sliced
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/3 cup sugar for custard
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour for streusel
1/3 cup chilled butter for streusel
1/3 cup chopped hazelnuts
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly, stir in sugar and egg to form a dough, then chill for 30 minutes.
Prepare custard by heating 1.5 cups milk with sugar; stir cornstarch into remaining cold milk, mix into hot milk, and whisk until thickened. Cool slightly.
Roll out the dough and press into a tart pan.
Arrange apple slices over the base, pour the custard over the apples.
Mix flour, butter, hazelnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg until crumbly; sprinkle over the custard layer.
Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
Cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Ensure the custard is not boiling hard before pouring over the apples to keep the layers distinct. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled for the best texture. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg