Classic German Apple Tart with Vanilla and Almond Flakes

A warm Classic German Apple Tart is the perfect dessert for fall, combining the natural sweetness of apples with the richness of a custard topping and the crunch of almond flakes. The buttery, flaky crust adds a delightful texture to the tart, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

100g (7 tbsp) butter
50g (⅓ cup) powdered sugar

8g (1 tsp) vanilla sugar
A pinch of salt
3 tbsp vegetable oil

50g (¼ cup) cornstarch
1 egg
A pinch of baking powder

250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour

For the Apple Filling:

4 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tbsp granulated sugar

8g (1 tsp) vanilla sugar
A pinch of cinnamon
1 tbsp butter

For the Custard Topping:

2 eggs
60g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
8g (1 tsp) vanilla sugar
60g (4 tbsp) melted butter
100 ml (⅓ cup) whipping cream
Almond flakes, for topping

For Garnish:

Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine 100g butter, 50g powdered sugar, 8g vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
Add 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 50g cornstarch, and 1 egg. Stir the ingredients together until the mixture forms a smooth consistency.
Gradually add 250g all-purpose flour and a pinch of baking powder, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid kneading the dough—use your fingertips to gather it together.
Press the dough evenly into a 28 cm tart mold. Once shaped, place the tart mold in the freezer while preparing the filling to help prevent shrinking during baking.

Make the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice the 4 apples into thin slices.
In a pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the apples with 2 tablespoons sugar, 8g vanilla sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon. Cook until the apples are slightly softened but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the apples from heat and set them aside to cool.

Prepare the Custard Topping

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 60g sugar, and 8g vanilla sugar until smooth.
Stir in the 60g melted butter and 100 ml whipping cream, whisking until the custard mixture is well combined and smooth.

Assemble the Tart

Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
Remove the tart crust from the freezer and arrange the apple slices evenly on top of the crust.
Pour the prepared custard mixture over the apples, spreading it gently to cover all the fruit.
Sprinkle almond flakes generously over the custard topping to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Bake

Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The tart should be firm in the center when you gently press on it.
Once baked, allow the tart to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced apples.
Add a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the sweetness and richness of the tart.
Pair with a cup of black coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.
Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra layer of indulgence.
Enjoy with a glass of chilled apple cider for the perfect autumn treat.

Cooking Tips

Use tart apples: Granny Smith apples are perfect for this tart because they have a nice balance of sweetness and tang that complements the custard and almond flakes.
Handle the dough gently: Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make it tough. Simply press the dough into the tart pan and avoid kneading.
Chill the dough: To prevent the dough from shrinking during baking, chill the crust in the freezer while preparing the filling.
Customize the apple filling: For added flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice to the apples while sautéing.

Nutritional Benefits

Apples: High in fiber and vitamin C, apples help support digestion and immune function.
Almonds: Rich in healthy fats and vitamin E, almonds promote heart health and provide antioxidants.
Eggs and whipping cream: Offer protein and fats, contributing to the tart’s rich texture and flavor.
Cinnamon: This warm spice has anti-inflammatory properties and adds a pleasant sweetness to the apple filling.

Dietary Information

Vegetarian-friendly: This tart is suitable for vegetarians.
Contains gluten and dairy: This recipe uses all-purpose flour, butter, and whipping cream, so it’s not suitable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
Not suitable for nut allergies: This tart contains almonds in both the filling and topping, so it’s not suitable for those with nut allergies.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugars: 20 g
Sodium: 100 mg

Storage Tips

Room temperature: Store any leftover tart in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can last for a short period.
Refrigeration: If you want to store the tart for longer, refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Be sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: You can freeze the tart for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic flavors: The combination of apples, vanilla, and almond is a timeless favorite that will never go out of style.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, this tart is approachable even for beginner bakers.
Perfect for autumn: The warm spices and apple filling make this tart a perfect dessert for the fall season or any time you crave comfort food.
Impressive presentation: The almond flakes and dusting of powdered sugar give the tart a beautiful, professional look, making it ideal for special occasions.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any apple variety you prefer, but Granny Smith apples are ideal because they hold their shape well during baking and offer a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

Can I make the crust gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour in the crust to make it gluten-free.

Can I make the custard topping dairy-free?

You can substitute the whipping cream with coconut cream or another dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free butter for the custard topping.

How can I prevent the crust from shrinking?

To prevent the crust from shrinking, chill the dough in the freezer before baking, and avoid overworking the dough while pressing it into the tart pan.

Conclusion

This Classic German Apple Tart with Vanilla and Almond Flakes is a stunning and delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of apples, vanilla, and almond. With its buttery crust, custard topping, and almond flakes, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you serve it with ice cream, whipped cream, or a hot beverage, this tart is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy it as a comforting dessert or for a special family gathering, and savor the flavors of fall with every bite.