Easy Vegan German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen) Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a comforting slice of cake that’s bursting with fresh fruit flavors yet entirely plant-based, then this Easy Vegan German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen) Recipe is the one to try. Its tender crumb soaked with subtle hints of vanilla and apple cider vinegar, paired with beautifully fanned apple slices crowning the top, makes it a true showstopper. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a casual afternoon treat, this cake brings that perfect blend of moist texture and sweet-tart apple charm without any animal products. You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly delicious German baking can be when adapted to vegan living!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, from the texture of the crumb to the delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Each component is straightforward, easily found, and works harmoniously to create a stunning and satisfying cake.

• Soy milk (236 ml): Used to create a vegan “buttermilk” by adding apple cider vinegar, giving the cake a tender crumb.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp): Helps activate the baking powder and enhances the softness of the cake.
• Vegan butter (100 g, room temperature): Adds richness and a buttery flavor; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
• Golden granulated sugar (170 g): Sweetens naturally and adds subtle caramel notes for depth.
• Vegan Greek-style yogurt (85 g): Keeps the cake moist and slightly tangy, offering a velvety texture.
• Vanilla extract (2 tbsp): Infuses warmth and aromatic sweetness, making every bite comforting.
• Plain flour (250 g): The base of the cake providing structure without overpowering the other flavors.
• Baking powder (2 ½ tsp): Ensures the cake rises perfectly light and fluffy.
• Sea salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the mix beautifully.
• Apples (3 ½, a mix of Granny Smith and Braeburn): These varieties create brilliance in taste and texture, with the tartness from Granny Smith and sweetness from Braeburn.
• Organic powdered sugar (2 tbsp, optional): For dusting on top, adding a delicate, pretty finish.

How to Make Easy Vegan German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Cake Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (347°F). Line the base of a 9-inch cake tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Lightly grease the sides with oil or vegan butter, then dust them with flour for an extra-nonstick barrier. This simple prepping ensures your cake comes out cleanly and maintains a neat edge.

Step 2: Make the Vegan “Buttermilk”

In a medium bowl or jug, combine the soy milk with the apple cider vinegar and stir well. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes. This “buttermilk” substitute is essential because it adds acidity that interacts with the baking powder to give the cake its light, airy texture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or electric hand mixer, beat the softened vegan butter and golden sugar together for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture turns pale, fluffy, and has a lovely creamy consistency. This step is like magic—it creates the perfect base that traps air helping the cake to rise.

Step 4: Add Yogurt and Vanilla

Mix in the vegan Greek-style yogurt and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. These ingredients add moisture and flavor depth, making sure every slice is moist and fragrant with warm vanilla notes.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, and sea salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and seasoning so your cake bakes evenly and tastes balanced.

Step 6: Prepare the Apples

Wash and peel your apples, then core and quarter them. Slice each quarter thinly but keep the slices whole to create beautiful fanned shapes—that traditional Apfelkuchen look everyone loves. Using a mix of Granny Smith and Braeburn apples adds wonderful complexity to the flavor, blending tart and sweet perfectly.

Step 7: Mix the Batter

Switch your mixer to a whisk or paddle attachment and alternately add the vegan “buttermilk” and dry ingredients into the creamed butter mixture, doing this in two increments. Whisk gently after each addition until just combined, being careful not to overmix or the cake could become dense.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Pour the thick batter into your prepared cake tin and smooth the surface with a spatula. Gently press the sliced apples into the batter surface, arranging them in those pretty fans. This step not only makes the cake visually stunning but infuses every bite with fresh apple flavor.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes until the top is gorgeously golden brown. To test doneness, insert a toothpick or knife in the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Let it cool in the tin for 15 to 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely for another 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 10: Final Touch and Serving

Once cooled, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar if you like and serve with vegan whipped cream or a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream. This finishing touch adds creaminess and a little indulgence to your Easy Vegan German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen) Recipe.

How to Serve Easy Vegan German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen) Recipe

Garnishes

Dusting the cake with organic powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and gives it a charming, snowy effect. For a little extra flair, sprinkle some ground cinnamon or toasted almond flakes on top. These small garnishes enhance both visual appeal and flavor.

Side Dishes

This apple cake pairs beautifully with a cup of rich vegan coffee or herbal tea, making it perfect for an afternoon fika or casual get-together. For heartier occasions, serve alongside dairy-free vanilla ice cream or coconut-based whipped cream to balance the fruity tartness with creamy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this cake in rustic slices on a wooden board with fresh apple slices and edible flowers for a country-chic vibe. You can also layer smaller portions of the cake in clear glass jars with vegan custard or yogurt, making a quick and impressive dessert parfait using the Easy Vegan German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen) Recipe as your base.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat it within the same day. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to three days. Bringing the cake back to room temperature before serving helps restore its fluffy and tender texture beautifully.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this cake later, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It freezes well for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before warming gently or serving at room temperature.

Reheating

To revive the cake’s softness and aromatic warmth, gently reheat slices in a low oven (around 150°C / 300°F) for 5 to 10 minutes or microwave briefly on medium power. This makes it just like freshly baked again and perfect for spontaneous desserts or breakfasts.

FAQs

Can I use other types of milk besides soy milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute oat, almond, or any other plant-based milk you prefer. Just make sure to add the apple cider vinegar to create that vegan “buttermilk” effect for the best texture.

What if I don’t have vegan Greek-style yogurt?

No worries—plain soy or coconut yogurt works just as well. This keeps the cake moist and tender without altering the flavor too much.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, so it’s best to choose a blend with xanthan gum or another binder included.

Are there other fruit options instead of apples?

This recipe is best with apples for that classic Apfelkuchen feel, but you can experiment with pears or peaches sliced thinly. Just be mindful that the baking time might need slight adjustments depending on the fruit’s moisture content.

How do I make sure the apple slices stay neatly fanned on top?

Try to slice the apples evenly and not too thick. Press them gently but firmly into the batter just before baking so they stay in place while the cake cooks and rises.

Final Thoughts

I promise this Easy Vegan German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen) Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. It’s a heartfelt nod to traditional German baking made accessible for anyone following a plant-based lifestyle. Each slice brings warmth, nostalgia, and fresh flavor that’s hard to resist. So grab your ingredients and enjoy making this beautiful cake; you’ll love sharing it as much as you love eating it!

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