Classic Apple Cake with Vanilla Butter Streusel: A Timeless Treat for Any Occasion

This classic apple cake features a rich, buttery base topped with juicy apple wedges marinated in vanilla and lemon, topped with a crunchy vanilla butter streusel. The combination of tender apples and crunchy, sweet topping makes this cake a comforting and satisfying dessert. Vanilla enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, while streusel adds a delicious textural contrast that elevates this traditional cake to a gourmet level.

Why you'll love it: The aroma of baked apples mixed with vanilla and butter creates an inviting scent that fills the kitchen, promising a delicious treat. This cake strikes the perfect balance between the moist, fruit-laden base and the rich, crumbly topping. It's a versatile dessert that fits perfectly into any meal, from a cozy family dinner to an elegant afternoon tea. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients and preparation makes this cake both delicious to make and eat.

Perfect occasion: This apple cake is perfect for many occasions. Serve it at fall gatherings to celebrate the harvest, at holiday meals, or bring it to potlucks and picnics. It's also ideal for afternoon coffee breaks or as a sweet treat on the weekend. The universal appeal of this cake makes it a welcome addition to any dessert table, especially during the colder months.

Decorating Tips: For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. This not only adds an extra layer of sweetness but also makes the cake look more elegant. If you're serving this cake at a special event, consider pairing each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A few fresh mint leaves or a pinch of cinnamon can also enhance its visual appeal and flavor.

Ingredients:

• For the butter chips:
  • 125 g cold butter
  • 200g flour
  • 100 g of sugar
  • 2 teaspoons of vanilla sugar

• For the dough:
  • 150 g cold butter
  • 80 g of sugar
  • 250g of flour
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla sugar
  • 1/2 packet of baking powder

• For the apple filling:
  • 800 g peeled, cored and quartered apples
  • 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon of vanilla sugar

1. Prepare the oven and the pan:
   • Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a 26cm springform pan with baking paper and butter the edges.

2. Marinate the apples:
   • Mix the apple wedges with the lemon juice and vanilla sugar in a bowl. Leave to marinate to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the butter chips:
   • Mix cold butter, flour, sugar and vanilla sugar in a blender. Knead until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Put aside.
4. Prepare the dough:
   • In the same mixing device, knead the cold butter, sugar, flour, vanilla sugar and baking powder until the dough is homogeneous.

5. Assemble the cake:
   • Press the dough into the prepared springform pan, creating a base and slightly up the sides to retain the filling.
   • Distribute the marinated apple slices evenly over the dough.
   • Sprinkle the butter crumble mixture over the apples.
6. Cook:
   • Place the cake on the second lowest rack of the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.

7. Cool and serve:
   • After baking, let the cake cool on a rack. If desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy this delicious classic Apple Cake with Buttery Vanilla Streusel, a comforting treat that combines the timeless flavors of apples and vanilla in a beautifully simple yet elegant way!