Decadent German Apple Cake with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Decadent German Apple Cake with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, moist layers studded with tangy apples and crunchy pecans, all enveloped in a luxuriously smooth cinnamon frosting that perfectly balances sweet and spice. This cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience that combines rustic charm with rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, this recipe will become your go-to classic that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together in this recipe to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each one plays an essential role—flour for the perfect crumb, apples for juiciness, and spice for that inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour: Provides the cake’s tender structure; gluten-free flour can be swapped for a GF version.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth, pairing beautifully with the apples.
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda: Ensures the cake rises properly and stays light.
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
• 3 large Eggs: Bind the mixture and add richness; aquafaba can replace eggs for a vegan option.
• 1 cup Sugar: Sweetens gently; try coconut sugar to lower the glycemic impact.
• 1/2 cup Canola Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender; unsweetened applesauce can lighten it up.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Brings out the sweet notes in the batter; almond extract is a fun alternative.
• 3 cups Apples: Fresh Granny Smiths are best for tart contrast and texture.
• 1 cup Pecans: Offer crunchy contrast; walnuts or no nuts work too.
• 8 oz Cream Cheese: The star ingredient in the frosting, making it silky and rich; non-dairy cream cheese works for vegans.
• 1/2 cup Butter: Adds luscious creaminess to frosting; vegan butter is a fantastic swap.
• 3 cups Confectioners’ Sugar: Sweet and smooth, it stabilizes the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Perfectly complements the cake and frosting ensemble.

How to Make Decadent German Apple Cake with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans

Begin by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare two 9-inch round pans by lining them with parchment paper and lightly greasing the sides. This small prep step ensures your cake layers will come out cleanly and look flawless.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and kosher salt. Combining these ingredients first allows the rising agents and spices to be evenly distributed throughout your cake batter.

Step 3: Beat Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, vigorously beat the eggs, sugar, canola oil, and vanilla extract until everything is well blended and slightly fluffy. This step helps aerate the batter for tender cake layers.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixes

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix here; stopping as soon as it’s combined keeps the cake tender and light rather than dense.

Step 5: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Gently incorporate the chopped apples and pecans into the batter. These add bursts of tart sweetness and crunchy texture that are signature elements of this recipe.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans, spreading it gently. Bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma at this point will start making your kitchen irresistible!

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them onto wire racks to cool completely. Patience here is key for smooth frosting application.

Step 8: Prepare the Creamy Cinnamon Frosting

Blend the softened cream cheese with the butter until perfectly smooth, then gradually mix in the confectioners’ sugar and ground cinnamon. This frosting is where the cake truly shines, creating a luscious, velvety finish with that hint of spice.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Then carefully stack the second layer, finishing by covering the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

Step 10: Decorate and Serve

For a lovely finishing touch, arrange thin apple slices and sprinkle chopped pecans across the top of your frosted cake. This not only adds visual flair but a fresh crunch that compliments every bite.

How to Serve Decadent German Apple Cake with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of extra ground cinnamon or a few delicate apple slices on the side elevates the presentation and ties the flavors together beautifully. A light sprinkle of chopped pecans adds texture and a rustic charm that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a cozy drink accompaniment, serve alongside a spiced tea or a cup of freshly brewed coffee to complement the sweet and spicy notes of the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking about taking your Decadent German Apple Cake with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Recipe to the next level? Try layering smaller mini cakes for an intimate gathering or placing it atop a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves for a seasonal centerpiece that doubles as a dessert display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep your apple cake covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days. Make sure to use an airtight container or cover it well with plastic wrap to prevent the frosting from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake either fully assembled or in layers. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cake will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, especially on chillier days, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid heating the entire cake or the frosting directly to preserve that creamy cinnamon frosting’s delicate consistency.

FAQs

Can I substitute other apples for Granny Smith?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firmness, you can use Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady apples. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will create a sweeter cake, and softer apples might make the texture a little more delicate.

Is there a vegan version of this Decadent German Apple Cake with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Recipe?

Yes! You can replace eggs with aquafaba, use vegan butter and non-dairy cream cheese in the frosting, and opt for a gluten-free flour blend if desired. The key is to keep the moisture and texture balanced for the best results.

How can I make this cake nut-free?

If you need to avoid nuts, simply omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch without allergen concerns.

What is the best way to slice this cake?

The secret to neat slices is to use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Slightly chilled cake also holds together better, making serving a breeze.

Can I make this cake ahead of a big event?

You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and keep them wrapped tightly at room temperature. Prepare the frosting on the day of assembly to keep it fresh and creamy, then frost and decorate shortly before serving.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Decadent German Apple Cake with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Recipe that makes every occasion feel a little more festive and every moment a bit sweeter. I encourage you to give it a try, whether you are an experienced baker or just starting out. This cake’s delightful blend of tart apples, warming spices, and velvety frosting will quickly become a treasured favorite in your dessert repertoire. Happy baking!

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