Apple And Cream Kuchen Recipe

Ingredients for Apple And Cream Kuchen

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Sugar
• 1 1/2 - 2 cups (180-240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 large egg
• 4 medium apples (about 2 pounds), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese (softened)

How to Make Apple And Cream Kuchen

1. **Activate Yeast:** In a large bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon salt, 4 teaspoons granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup (90g) all-purpose flour.
2. **Warm Milk & Butter:** In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup (120ml) milk and 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter until very warm (around 105-115°F).
3. **Combine Wet & Dry:** Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until combined.
4. **Initial Mixing:** Beat the mixture for 2 minutes until well blended.
5. **Add Egg & Flour:** Add 1 large egg and 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed for 2 minutes.
6. **Form Dough:** Gradually add enough all-purpose flour (about 1 1/2 - 2 cups, 180-240g) to form a soft, elastic dough.
7. **Knead the Dough:** Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
8. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
9. **Prepare the Pan:** Grease a 10-inch springform pan. Gently press the dough into the pan, extending it 1 1/2 inches up the sides.
10. **Prepare Apple Filling:** In a bowl, toss 4 medium apples (about 2 pounds), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced, with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour.
11. **Assemble the Kuchen:** Arrange the apple slices in rows on top of the prepared dough.
12. **Make Cream Cheese Topping:** In a separate bowl, beat together 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, and 1 large egg until smooth and creamy.
13. **Spread the Topping:** Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the apples.
14. **Second Rise:** Let the Kuchen rise in a warm place for another hour.
15. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
16. **Cool & Serve:** Let the Kuchen cool slightly before releasing it from the springform pan. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!