Delicious Apple Kuchen Recipe

This delightful apple kuchen is a perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a crisp pastry base and a fluffy meringue topping. It combines the comforting flavors of autumn with the rich texture of a buttery crust. The acidity from the sour apples balances the sweetness of the meringue, creating a harmonious dessert experience. The flaky, buttery crust offers a satisfying contrast to the soft apple slices nestled within. Its simplicity is its strength, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this apple kuchen is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Don't forget, this dessert tastes divine both warm and cold. Ready to elevate your baking skills? Dive into this wonderful and easy-to-follow recipe now!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

3 egg yolks
3/4 cup sugar
200 g margarine or butter
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
A pinch of salt
Vanilla extract

Filling:

1 kg sour apples
3 egg whites
1/2 cup sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, blend the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar until thick and creamy.
Add Margarine: Mix in softened margarine or butter until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually add into the wet mix. Add vanilla for a fragrant aroma.
Form the Dough: Knead the mixture until it forms a cohesive dough.
Chill the Dough: Separate a fifth of the dough and place it in the freezer to chill.
Shape the Dough: Press the remaining dough into a cake pan or a high-sided baking dish, ensuring to cover the sides.
Prepare Apples: Peel and slice the apples thinly, then layer them on top of the dough in the pan.
Fill with Apples: If using a traditional cake form, fill it to the brim with apple slices.
Whip Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, whisk egg whites, gradually adding 1/2 cup of sugar until soft peaks form.
Top with Meringue: Pour the meringue over the apples evenly spreading to coat.
Grate Chilled Dough: Take the reserved dough from the freezer and grate it over the meringue-topped apples.
Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to medium heat.
Bake the Kuchen: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.
Check Readiness: Look for a golden-brown crust with firm meringue peaks.
Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before slicing. It's delicious when warm or cold.
Store Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat To Serve Warm: If desired, warm slices briefly in the oven.
Watch for Even Baking: Rotate the dish midway through baking for even cooking.
Keep Meringue Light: Avoid overbeating the meringue; it should be soft and glossy.
Enjoy and Savor: Each slice is a blissful bite of layered sweetness and tanginess.

Tips

Butter Substitute: Margarine can be replaced with butter for a richer flavor.
Sugar Adjustments: Adjust sugar according to the tartness of your apples.
Storage: Kuchen can be stored in the fridge or at room temperature in a cool spot.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 380 per serving
Protein: 5g
Fats: 18g
Carbs: 45g

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour instead of regular flour.
Vegan Version: Substitute egg with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Cinnamon Spice: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the apple filling for extra warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Drink Pairings: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of chilled apple cider.
Garnishes: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce for added indulgence.

Best Places

Apple Delight Café - A cozy corner offering a remarkable apple kuchen experience. Location: 123 Baker St, London, UK.
Kuchen House - Known for its artisan-style pastries with a traditional touch. Location: 456 Kuchen Lane, Munich, Germany.
Sweet Apple Bistro - Famous for its eclectic blend of modern and classic apple desserts. Location: 789 Dessert Ave, San Francisco, USA.
Apfelstrudel Haven - Renowned for its authentic, handmade apple treats. Location: 101 Vienna Road, Vienna, Austria.
Crust & Core - A popular spot for tasting European pastries. Location: 202 Gourmand St, Paris, France.
The Pie Place - Offers a modern twist on classic apple kuchen. Location: 303 Pie Road, Melbourne, Australia.
Tart Tartine - Celebrated for its fine selection of apple-inspired pastries. Location: 404 Patisserie Blvd, Montreal, Canada.
Strudel & Stripes - A delightful pastry shop with a Bavarian twist. Location: 505 Little Street, New York City, USA.
Apple Blossom Bakery - Known for scrumptious apple kuchen baked fresh daily. Location: 606 Blossom Blvd, Tokyo, Japan.
Golden Apple Café - A spot where classic meets contemporary in kuchen art. Location: 707 Orchard Ave, Barcelona, Spain.