German Apple Pie

Every year at the start of fall, my family heads out for our annual apple-picking excursion. We’re fortunate to live in an area where orchards are plentiful and the variety of apples to choose from is impressive. As a result, we end up with so many apples it’s sometimes a challenge to find creative ways to use them all.

This German apple pie is one dish that’s non-negotiable. While there are many recipes for apple pie, the German version (called an Apfelkuchen) is a long-standing family favorite.

In a German apple pie, loads of tart apples are sweetened and spiced, then baked with cream to produce an almost custard-like texture. This recipe uses a homemade pie crust with a bit of vanilla extract, but if you want to save time, you can go with a store-bought crust instead.

German Apple Pie Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Shortening
• Vanilla extract
• Ice water

Filling

• Sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Ground cinnamon
• Tart apples
• Heavy whipping cream
• Whipped cream (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Make the dough

Preheat the oven to 450ºF. In a small bowl, combine the flour and salt. Using a pastry blender or fork, cut in the shortening until crumbly. Add the vanilla. Gradually add the ice water, a little at a time, tossing with a fork until the dough forms a ball.

Step 2: Roll out the dough

Roll out the pastry to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the crust to a pie plate, and trim it to 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the plate. Flute the edges.

Step 3: Prepare the pie filling

Combine the sugar, flour and cinnamon. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons on the bottom of the pie crust. Layer the crust with half the apples. Sprinkle half the remaining sugar mixture on the apples. Repeat the layers. Pour the heavy whipping cream over the top.

Editor’s Tip: A German apple pie should be densely packed with apples, so layer the apples close together.

Step 4: Bake the pie

Bake the pie for 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to 350º and bake for another 55 to 60 minutes, or until the apples are tender. Remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. Serve the cooled pie as is, or add a dollop of homemade whipped cream.

How to Store German Apple Pie

Because of the cream, this recipe for German apple pie should be stored in the refrigerator.

German Apple Pie Tips

Can I add other fruit to German apple pie?

Yes, you can layer in other fruits in a German Apfelkuchen. Berries will add extra tartness and color. Or, try an apple and peach combination for a summery flavor.

Can I use a premade crust for German apple pie?

If you don’t want to make the pie crust from scratch, use a store-bought pie crust for your German apple pie with cream. It’ll still taste delicious!

What are the best apples for apple pie?

In most recipes, the best apples for apple pie are firm, tart apples that won’t get overly mushy or too sweet. This German apple pie recipe calls for 6 cups of peeled tart apples—try varieties like Granny Smith or Cortland apples.