In Germany, traditional pastry-based apple pie is called what?

In Germany, the traditional covered pastry apple pie is called Gedeckter Apfelkuchen. The name literally means “covered apple cake,” describing apple filling enclosed beneath a pastry lid.

This German classic is generally made in a springform pan with a sweet shortcrust pastry. The base and sides hold a filling of tart apples, while a second sheet of pastry covers the top. Many versions finish the cake with a white icing made from powdered sugar and lemon juice; raisins, cinnamon, almonds or vanilla may also appear, depending on the recipe.

The wording can cause confusion because Apfelkuchen is the broad German term for apple cake and includes open, yeast-based and sponge-style versions. Gedeckter Apfelkuchen identifies the enclosed pastry style specifically. It is also distinct from Bienenstich, Käsekuchen and Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, which are different German cakes.