Hungarian Apple Cake, traditionally known as Almás Pite, is a beloved Hungarian pastry made with a tender, buttery dough and a generous layer of sweet cinnamon-spiced apples. Unlike a simple apple cake made from batter, the classic Hungarian version is more like a delicate apple pie, with a pastry layer underneath and another thin layer of pastry on top.

The combination of buttery pastry, soft grated apples, cinnamon, and powdered sugar makes Almás Pite a timeless Hungarian dessert. It is especially popular for family gatherings, holidays, Sunday lunches, and afternoon coffee.

What Is Hungarian Almás Pite?

Almás Pite literally means apple pie in Hungarian.

It is one of the most recognizable homemade Hungarian desserts. The traditional preparation uses grated apples cooked or squeezed to remove excess moisture, then seasoned with sugar and cinnamon before being sandwiched between two layers of tender pastry.

The top pastry becomes beautifully golden during baking, while the apple filling remains soft, fragrant, and slightly caramelized.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🇭🇺 Classic Hungarian homemade dessert
• 🍎 Generous apple filling
• 🧈 Tender buttery pastry
• 🌿 Warm cinnamon flavor
• ❄️ Delicious with powdered sugar
• ☕ Perfect with coffee or tea
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Wonderful family recipe
• 🎄 Great for holidays and celebrations
• 🍰 Easy to slice and serve

Ingredients

For the Pastry

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Apple Filling

• 2 1/2–3 lb (1.1–1.4 kg) apples
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, or to taste
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs or semolina
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional

For the Finish

• 1 egg yolk, optional
• 1 tablespoon milk, optional
• Powdered sugar, for serving