What To Know
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle approximately 30cm in diameter.
- For a crispier crumble topping, bake it for a few minutes before adding it to the kuchen.
- Yes, you can make the dough and filling a day ahead and assemble the kuchen before baking.
Indulge in the rich culinary traditions of Germany with our authentic traditional German cherry kuchen recipe. This delectable treat, with its tender crumb and burst of juicy cherries, has been a beloved dessert for generations. Embark on a culinary adventure as we guide you through the steps to create this timeless masterpiece.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 500g plain flour
- 200g unsalted butter, cubed
- 100g caster sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 500g fresh cherries, pitted
- 100g caster sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Crumble Topping:
- 100g plain flour
- 50g unsalted butter, cubed
- 50g caster sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the cubed butter and rub into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the sugar and egg and mix until a dough forms.
4. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Filling:
1. Pit the cherries and place them in a large bowl.
2. Add the caster sugar, cornstarch, and ground cinnamon and mix well.
Creating the Crumble Topping:
1. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, butter, sugar, and ground cinnamon.
2. Rub the ingredients together until they resemble coarse crumbs.
Assembling the Kuchen:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas 4).
2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle approximately 30cm in diameter.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the dough on top.
4. Spread the cherry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 2cm border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the filling.
Baking the Kuchen:
1. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Allow the kuchen to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfection:
- For a sweeter kuchen, add more sugar to the filling.
- To enhance the cherry flavor, use fresh, ripe cherries.
- If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute it with plain flour.
- For a crispier crumble topping, bake it for a few minutes before adding it to the kuchen.
Variations:
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent treat.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar over the kuchen before serving for an elegant touch.
- Top with fresh berries or sliced almonds for a burst of color and flavor.
The Joy of Sharing:
Gather your loved ones and savor the sweet moments as you share this traditional German cherry kuchen. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering, this dessert will bring joy and create lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
Q: How do I store the kuchen?
A: Store the kuchen in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make the kuchen ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough and filling a day ahead and assemble the kuchen before baking. Store the assembled kuchen in the refrigerator overnight and bake it the next day.
