Fine "krum Kuchen" Recipe

Krum Kuchen, also known as "crumb cake" in English, is a delightful dessert that originated in Germany. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations and remains a beloved treat for many. The name "krum kuchen" is derived from the German words "krum" meaning crumbs and "kuchen" meaning cake. As its name suggests, this cake boasts a deliciously crumbly texture, making it a perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of tea or coffee.

There are many variations of krum kuchen, but the following recipe will guide you through making a fine and scrumptious version. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey and delight your taste buds!

Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup lard
- 2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoonfuls of baking powder
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup sweet milk
- 1 teaspoonful of melted butter
- Cinnamon for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to a rather quick temperature, around 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, butter, lard, flour, and baking powder. Use your hands to crumb the ingredients together until evenly mixed. Set aside 1/2 cup of this crumb mixture to be scattered over the top of the cake later.

3. In the remaining crumb mixture, add the beaten egg yolks and the sweet milk. Mix well to combine.

4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the stiffly beaten egg whites into the crumb mixture. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites, as they will help lighten the cake.

5. Take a well-greased pan, preferably a deep custard pie tin, and pour the cake batter into it. Ensure the batter is spread evenly throughout the pan.

6. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of crumbs over the top of the cake. This will create a delightful crunchy texture once baked.

7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the cake turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle 1 teaspoonful of melted butter over the top of the cake, followed by a dusting of cinnamon. These final touches will enhance the flavor and appearance of the krum kuchen.

9. Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into slices and serving. This cake is best enjoyed fresh and at room temperature.

Fun Facts:
- Krum kuchen is a traditional dessert served during holidays and festive occasions in Germany.
- In some regions of Germany, krum kuchen is enjoyed during Christmas time, often accompanied by a hot mulled wine called Glühwein.
- The crumb topping on krum kuchen can also be made with ground nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, for an extra crunchy and nutty flavor.
- Krum kuchen is a versatile dessert and can be enjoyed as a breakfast pastry or as an afternoon treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you're a fan of krum kuchen, you may also enjoy these similar recipe dishes:

1. Streuselkuchen: Another popular German crumb cake, streuselkuchen features a soft yeast dough base topped with a buttery and sugary crumble. It can be flavored with various fruits, such as apples, cherries, or plums.

2. Coffee Cake: Coffee cake is a classic American dessert that typically consists of a moist cake base with a cinnamon streusel topping. It is often enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee, hence the name.

3. Jewish Crumb Cake: Also known as "Jewish coffee cake," this cake has a similar crumbly texture to krum kuchen. It is often spiced with cinnamon and topped with a sweet crumble, making it a popular choice for breakfast or brunch.

These cake varieties share the delightful crumbly texture that makes them irresistible. Choose one to satisfy your cravings or try them all to discover your favorite crumb cake creation. Enjoy!