Pumpernickel Apple Crumble Delight

Overview

Apfelbettelmann, a delightful German dessert, combines the sweetness of apples with the rich flavors of pumpernickel crumbs, creating a unique and comforting treat perfect for any occasion.

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 642.2 kcal

Ingredients

• 9 tbsp butter, divided
• 1/2 cup currants
• 5 tbsp rum
• 1 1/2 cups pumpernickel bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
• 3/4 cup sugar, divided
• 1 lemon, rind of, grated
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 4 cooking apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Coat the inside of a 6-8 cup baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter.

2. Prepare Crumb Mixture:

   • In a large bowl, soak the currants in the rum for 30 minutes.
   • Add the pumpernickel bread crumbs, chopped hazelnuts, 1/2 cup of sugar, melted butter (5 tablespoons), grated lemon peel, and ground cinnamon to the bowl with the currants.
   • Stir until well combined and set aside.

3. Prepare Apples:

   • Place the thinly sliced apples in another bowl.
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar over the apple slices and toss gently to coat.

4. Assemble the Dessert:

   • Spread about one-third of the pumpernickel crumb mixture evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Layer half of the apple slices evenly over the crumb mixture.
   • Repeat with another layer of the pumpernickel crumb mixture, followed by the remaining apple slices.
   • Finish with the final third of the pumpernickel crumb mixture on top.
   • Dot the top layer with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.

5. Bake:

   • Bake the Apfelbettelmann in the middle of the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the top is golden brown.

6. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and serve the Apfelbettelmann warm.
   • Optionally, sprinkle with more ground cinnamon and sugar to taste.

7. Enjoy!:

   • This dessert is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, with its comforting aroma filling the kitchen.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 642.2 kcal
• Total Fat: 35.3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17.2 g
• Cholesterol: 68.7 mg
• Sodium: 245.8 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 74 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 7.1 g
  • Sugars: 64.8 g
• Protein: 5.2 g

Tips for Making Apfelbettelmann

• Ensure the apples are thinly sliced for even cooking and distribution throughout the dessert.
• Soaking the currants in rum adds a depth of flavor and plumps them up for a juicy bite.
• Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar sprinkled on the apples and in the crumb mixture, based on your preference.
• Serve Apfelbettelmann warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

This Apfelbettelmann recipe from lovewithrecipes.com captures the essence of traditional German desserts with its blend of apples, pumpernickel crumbs, and warm spices, making it a delightful choice for any dessert table or special occasion.