When I first whipped up this German Apple Cake, I could tell it was going to be a keeper! The sweet aroma of apples, cinnamon, and buttery streusel filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to take a bite.

What stood out to me was how the shortcrust pastry, creamy vanilla custard, juicy apple chunks, and crunchy streusel all worked together like magic.

It reminded me of the same comforting flavors found in mini chocolate cheesecakes, another favorite dessert at our home. The mix of textures and flavors is simply divine! It’s now my go-to dessert for cozy weekends or gatherings, and I know you’ll love it as much as I do.

German Apple Cake with Custard and Streusel Topping

Ingredients

For the Shortcrust Pastry
1⅔ cups all-purpose flour (200g)
1 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
⅓ cup sugar (70g)
7 tablespoons cold butter (100g)
1 egg

For the Custard
2 cups whole milk (500ml)
1 cup cream
2 packets vanilla pudding powder (or 8 tbsp cornstarch)
⅓ cup sugar (70g)
2 egg yolks

For the Streusel
1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
6 tablespoons cold butter (75g)
½ cup sugar (75g)
⅓ cup chopped hazelnuts (50g)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Pinch of salt

For the Filling
4–5 apples, peeled and chopped

Note: This recipe serves about 10 slices.

Variations

Looking for ways to make this recipe fit your style? Here are some tweaks you can try!

Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk and use plant-based butter.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix for the base and streusel.
Add a Bit More Flavor: Toss raisins or cranberries in with the apples for a fruity kick.
Try Different Nuts: Swap hazelnuts for walnuts or almonds to switch up the streusel topping. You can also enjoy similar desserts recipes for endless inspiration.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour, 55 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need

Springform pan (9-inch) – Perfect for easy cake removal.
Mixing bowls – Essential for prepping the layers separately.
Rolling pin – To roll out the shortcrust pastry evenly.
Whisk or electric mixer – Makes whipping up the custard smooth and simple.

How to Make German Apple Cake with Custard and Streusel Topping?

This delightful cake is easy to assemble with just a few steps. Prepare each element, layer them beautifully, and bake to perfection for a dessert that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry

Start by combining flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl. Cut the butter into cubes and work it into the dry ingredients until you get a crumbly texture. Add the egg and knead it all into a smooth dough. Flatten it into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and chill it for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Streusel

Mix flour, butter, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, hazelnuts, and salt. Use your hands to gently rub the mixture into fine crumbs. Chill the streusel topping in the fridge while you work on the custard and apples.

Step 3: Whip Up the Custard

Heat milk and cream in a saucepan, keeping aside 5 tablespoons of milk. Mix the reserved milk with vanilla pudding powder or cornstarch and sugar until smooth. Once the milk is near boiling, add the pudding mixture and whisk continuously until it thickens. Stir in the egg yolks and continue cooking for a minute. Remove from heat, cover with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and set it aside to cool.

Step 4: Roll Out the Pastry and Assemble

Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C). Roll out the pastry dough to fit your springform pan, leaving a slight edge around the sides. Spread the cooled custard evenly over the base, followed by the chopped apples.

Step 5: Add the Streusel and Bake

Sprinkle the chilled streusel evenly over the apple layer. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the streusel is golden brown and crisp. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. A similar cooking process can also be seen in Kahlua chocolate pudding, another must-try dessert!

Credit: cinnamonandcoriander.com

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

You’ll instantly fall in love with this layered cake for so many reasons.

Easy Elegance: It looks fancy but is simple to make, perfect for any occasion.
Balanced Textures: Each bite combines crisp, creamy, and soft textures.
Warm Flavors: Apples, cinnamon, and vanilla give it that cozy, homey feeling.
Versatility: You can adapt it for dietary needs or add extra flavor twists.

How to Serve German Apple Cake with Custard and Streusel Topping?

Serve it up in style! Here’s how I love presenting this beauty:

Keep It Simple: A light dusting of powdered sugar is always elegant.
Top It Off: Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a creamy accent.
Warm and Cozy: Slightly warm the cake, and drizzle it with caramel sauce for indulgence.

Nutritional Information

Each slice makes for a satisfying treat! Approximate values per serving include:

Calories: 210
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best parts about this cake is that it’s make-ahead friendly!

You can refrigerate leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just bring them to room temperature or lightly warm them up before serving. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, and it’ll taste just as good!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are my personal tips after making this cake (multiple times, I might add):

Choose the Right Apples: Go for tart varieties like Granny Smith. They balance the sweetness and hold their shape.
Don’t Skip Chilling: Chilled dough rolls out cleaner and bakes up flakier.
Experiment with Streusel Texture: Create finer crumbs or larger chunks depending on what you love.
Customize Freely: Add oats, raisins, or even a pinch of ginger if you feel adventurous.

Now all that’s left is to grab your ingredients and give it a try! This German Apple Cake with Custard and Streusel Topping is bound to win hearts at your table. Happy baking!