Apfelkuchen (Apple Cake)

Preheat the oven to its designated temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).

Sprinkle a thin layer of cooking spray or oil onto the interior and exterior surfaces of your chosen baking vessel, which can be either a 9x13-inch rectangular dish or a 9-inch round springform pan.

Combine two and a quarter cups of flour, one cup of milk, one quarter cup of sugar, one teaspoon of active dry yeast, six tablespoons of unsalted butter, a few drops of vanilla extract, and a small amount of salt in a large mixing bowl. Utilize an electric mixer to blend the ingredients on high speed until they form a smooth, cohesive mixture, approximately taking five minutes to accomplish. Pour the dough into your prepared baking vessel and press it upwards against the sides of the container.

Place apple slices within the dough, spreading them evenly to ensure uniform distribution.

In a separate bowl, combine one cup of sugar, three quarters of a cup of flour, some candied lemon peel, a pinch of cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, and another small amount of salt. Use a knife or pastry blender to cut in half a cup of butter until the mixture resembles coarse, uneven crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the apple slices.

Allow the dough to rise for thirty minutes, during which time it will expand and become easier to handle.

Place your preheated baking vessel in the oven, where it will bake until the cake is golden brown and the apples are tender, approximately taking thirty five minutes to complete.