Streuselkuchen mit Quark, a mouthful in both name and flavor, is a classic German dessert that combines the rich creaminess of quark with the delightful crunch of streusel topping. This traditional treat has been cherished for generations in German households, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. In this post, we will explore the art of crafting Streuselkuchen mit Quark, providing you with an authentic recipe to recreate this delectable dessert in your own kitchen.
Origin and Tradition:
Streuselkuchen, which translates to crumb cake, is a popular German pastry enjoyed during various occasions, from coffee breaks to festive gatherings. The addition of Quark, a creamy dairy product similar to yogurt but with a distinct texture, elevates this cake to a whole new level. Quark is a staple in German cuisine, and its inclusion in Streuselkuchen adds a delightful creaminess that complements the sweet and crumbly layers.
Ingredients:
Let’s delve into the ingredients required to make Streuselkuchen mit Quark:
For the Dough:
- 300g all-purpose flour
- 150g unsalted butter, softened
- 100g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
For the Quark Filling:
- 500g Quark
- 100g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the Streusel Topping:
- 150g all-purpose flour
- 100g granulated sugar
- 100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Cream them together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, and continue mixing until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Make the Quark Filling:
- In another bowl, combine the Quark, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare the Streusel Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, chilled butter cubes, and ground cinnamon.
- Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients until large crumbs form.
- Assemble the Streuselkuchen:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough and press it into the bottom of a greased baking pan, creating an even layer.
- Pour the Quark filling over the dough, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the Quark layer.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake the Streuselkuchen in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the streusel topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it Cool:
- Allow the Streuselkuchen to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, cut the Streuselkuchen into squares or slices and serve. You can dust it with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Conclusion:
Streuselkuchen mit Quark embodies the essence of German baking traditions. The tender dough, creamy Quark filling, and crunchy streusel topping create a symphony of textures and flavors that will transport you to the heart of Germany with every bite. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee in the afternoon or as a delightful dessert during a celebration, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Embrace the art of German baking and indulge in the irresistible charm of Streuselkuchen mit Quark. Guten Appetit!