Apple Kuchen

Directions

1. 1
   APPLES: In a saucepan, combine apples, 1/2 cup sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, rum and 1 cup sliced almonds.
2. 2
   Cook over medium heat until apples are soft but not saucy.
3. 3
   Add 1 tablespoons of flour; mix well.
4. 4
   Add another tablespoons of flour if liquid is present.
5. 5
   Set aside.
6. 6
   BASE: In a bowl, combine 1 cup flour, and 1/2 cup sugar.
7. 7
   Cut in butter with a pastry blender or two knives, until small crumbs form.
8. 8
   Sprinkle on cardamom.
9. 9
   Lightly pat mixture into a well-greased 10-inch springform pan.
10. 10
    FILLING: In a mixer, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoons flour and 1 tablespoons lemon juice.
11. 11
    Beat until smooth.
12. 12
    Stir in vanilla.
13. 13
    Add eggs, one at a time; beat well.
14. 14
    Pour evenly onto base.
15. 15
    Spoon apple mixture over filling; sprinkle with remaining almonds.
16. 16
    Bake in 475F oven for 15 minutes.
17. 17
    Reduce heat ot 350F and bake for another 30-40 minutes, until golden brown and firm.
18. 18
    Cool in pan for 30 minutes.
19. 19
    GLAZE: Heat apple jelly until bubbles form (about 1 minute on high in microwave).
20. 20
    Add ginger; mix well.
21. 21
    Cool and pour over cooled cake while still warm in the pan.
22. 22
    Allow to set for 20 minutes before removing the ring.