Bavarian Apple Torte is a delightful dessert featuring a buttery shortbread-like crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and tender, cinnamon-spiced apples on top. This elegant and delicious dessert is perfect for fall or any special occasion. It combines the richness of a cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For the filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the apple topping:
- 3 cups peeled, thinly sliced apples (about 3 medium apples, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Make the crust:
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the springform pan. Set aside.
- Make the filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust and spread evenly.
- Prepare the apple topping:
- In a medium bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) until the apples are evenly coated. Arrange the apples in a circular pattern over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake the torte:
- Reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Bake the torte for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature further to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. The cream cheese layer should be set but slightly soft in the center.
- Garnish and cool:
- Remove the torte from the oven and sprinkle the slivered almonds (if using) over the top. Let the torte cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Chill and serve:
- Allow the Bavarian Apple Torte to cool completely. For best results, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy this elegant Bavarian Apple Torte with its perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spiced flavors, ideal for any special occasion!
