This Caramelized Apple Cream Cake is a showstopping dessert that beautifully combines the rich sweetness of slow-cooked apples with a delicate cream custard and a buttery vanilla-scented crust. Each bite melts in your mouth, balancing textures of soft apples, silky cream, and a tender, flaky dough. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any day when you want to treat yourself, this cake brings warmth and comfort to the table. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent, with the bonus of being surprisingly easy to prepare.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 eggs

• A pinch of salt

• 8g (1 tsp) vanilla sugar

• 60g (4 tbsp) sugar

• 120g (1/2 cup) melted butter

• 280g (1.7 cups) all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 24cm baking pan

• Let sit in the refrigerator for 15 minutes

For the caramelized apples:

• 3 apples (peeled and sliced)

• 50g (1/4 cup) sugar

• 10g (1 tbsp) cornstarch

  

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• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes

For the cooked cream:

• 1 egg

• 16g (2 tsp) vanilla sugar

• 50g (1/4 cup) sugar

• 400ml (1.6 cups) milk

• 40g (1/3 cup) cornstarch

• 25g (1 tbsp) butter

• 120g (1/2 cup) cream cheese

• 180g (0.9 cup) heavy cream (33% fat)

Extras:

• 50g raisins

• 50g sliced almonds

Directions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, vanilla sugar, and regular sugar. Add melted butter and mix until combined. Gradually fold in flour and baking powder to form a soft dough. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it, and let it rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

2. Caramelize the Apples: While the dough chills, peel and slice the apples. In a saucepan, combine the apples with sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the apples soften and the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Set aside to cool.

   

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3. Prepare the Cooked Cream: In a saucepan, whisk together the egg, sugar, vanilla sugar, milk, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat, then stir in the butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Set aside to cool.

4. Assemble the Cake: Roll out the dough and press it evenly into a 24cm baking pan, forming the base and sides. Layer the caramelized apples over the crust. Scatter raisins evenly on top, then pour the cooked cream mixture over the apples. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top.

5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the cake for about 60 minutes, or until the top is golden and set. Let it cool before slicing.

Preparation Time:

• Dough: 15 minutes (+ 15 minutes chilling)

• Apple filling: 10 minutes

• Cooked cream: 10–12 minutes

• Assembly & baking: 60 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.):

• Calories: 320–360

• Carbohydrates: 38g

• Protein: 5g

• Fat: 18g

• Saturated Fat: 10g

• Sugar: 22g

• Fiber: 2g

  

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• Calcium: 90mg

About This Recipe

This recipe for Caramelized Apple Cream Cake is rooted in the timeless combination of apples, custard, and buttery crust. Inspired by European-style fruit tarts and creamy cheesecakes, it’s a delightful dessert that merges comfort with elegance. The lightly sweetened dough cradles soft, caramelized apples, topped with a silky vanilla custard enriched with cream cheese and heavy cream for a velvety finish. A final sprinkle of raisins and almonds adds texture and a hint of natural sweetness, bringing everything together in a perfect bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this recipe because it combines approachable ingredients with impressive flavor and presentation. It’s versatile enough for celebrations yet easy enough for weekday baking. The layers of rich cream and fruit contrast beautifully with the lightly crisp crust, while the raisins and almonds add a rustic, bakery-style touch. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dessert that tastes even better the next day.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

The inspiration for this cake draws from classic European apple desserts—think French tarte tatin or German Apfelkuchen—but with a modern twist. The addition of a creamy layer echoes the textures found in custard tarts or cheesecake, creating a hybrid that’s both traditional and inventive. The use of vanilla and caramelized fruit pays homage to home baking traditions that span centuries.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture, allow slices to come to room temperature before serving, or gently reheat in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the cream layer to break down and become watery. The cake also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.

Common Variations to Try

• Pear or Peach Version: Replace apples with sliced pears or peaches for a summery twist.

• Nutty Crust: Add ground almonds or walnuts to the dough for added crunch.

• Cinnamon Spice: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.

• Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for added richness.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free option.

Pairing Recommendations

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or black tea, especially those with spiced or nutty notes. For a special occasion, serve with a glass of dessert wine such as Moscato or a crisp apple cider. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also complements the warm, creamy layers of this dessert.

Health Benefits

Despite being an indulgent treat, this cake offers some nutritional perks. Apples provide fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Almonds are a source of healthy fats and protein, while eggs and dairy contribute calcium and vitamin D. By controlling the sugar content and using fresh ingredients, you can enjoy a balanced dessert that nourishes as well as delights.

Conclusion

Caramelized Apple Cream Cake is a dessert that brings together the best of classic flavors and comforting textures. From the first bite, you’ll experience the tender sweetness of apples, the smooth richness of cooked cream, and the buttery goodness of a homemade crust. This cake is more than a recipe—it’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients, family traditions, and the pure joy of baking. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed in a quiet moment, it’s a treat that always delivers. Try it once, and it may just become your go-to dessert for every occasion.