RecipesLuxembourgÄppelkuch (Luxembourgish Apple Cake)

Äppelkuch (Luxembourgish Apple Cake)

Äppelkuch is a traditional Luxembourgish apple cake, often featuring a buttery base topped with sliced apples and a rich custard-like topping that bakes into a moist, flavorful dessert.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Servings8
DifficultyMedium
Äppelkuch (Luxembourgish Apple Cake) - Luxembourg traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 300 g All-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar(for the cake base)
  • 2 teaspoons Baking powder
  • 110 g Salted butter(cold, cubed)
  • 120 ml Whole milk(for the cake base)
  • 2-3 Granny Smith apples(peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
  • 2 large Eggs(for the topping)
  • 240 ml Milk(for the topping)
  • 180 g Caster sugar(for the topping)
  • 2 tablespoons Apricot jam(for glazing)
  • 2 tablespoons Water(for glazing)
  • 1 tablespoon Icing sugar(for dusting (optional))
  • 2 teaspoons Cinnamon(for dusting (optional))

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.

  2. 2

    In a food processor, pulse together the flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and baking powder. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. 3

    Gradually add the 120ml of milk while pulsing, until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

  4. 4

    Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared cake pan.

  5. 5

    Arrange the sliced apples evenly over the dough.

  6. 6

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs, 240ml milk, and 180g caster sugar until well combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the apples and dough.

  7. 7

    Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

  8. 8

    While the cake is still warm, gently heat the apricot jam with 2 tablespoons of water until melted. Brush this glaze over the top of the cake.

  9. 9

    If desired, sift icing sugar and cinnamon over the cake before serving. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use a non-springform pan to prevent the custard from leaking out.
  • Ensure the apples are sliced thinly for even cooking.
  • The cake is best served slightly warm.

🔄 Variations

  • Some recipes include plums along with apples for a mixed fruit cake.
  • A dusting of cinnamon and icing sugar adds a lovely finish.
  • For a richer flavor, a tablespoon of vanilla extract can be added to the custard.

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