Plain Bunt Or Napf Kuchen Recipe

The history of Plain Bunt or Napf Kuchen can be traced back to the early 19th century in European baking traditions. The word "kuchen" means cake in German, and this particular cake is a classic among many German households.

Fun fact: The word "bunt" refers to the shape of the cake pan used, which is typically a Bundt pan. The origin of the name "Bundt" comes from the German word "Bund", which means a gathering or assembly. The cake pan was named Bundt as it was often used to bake cakes for gatherings or celebrations.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for this delicious Plain Bunt or Napf Kuchen.

Ingredients:
- 1 cake compressed yeast
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons lukewarm water
- 2 ½ cups flour
- 1 scant cup lukewarm milk
- ½ cup butter
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 3 eggs
- Peel of 1 lemon or an orange
- Blanched almonds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the yeast mixture. In a bowl, crumble the compressed yeast and add a pinch of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of lukewarm water. Stir until the yeast forms a smooth paste. Place the bowl in a warm spot to allow the yeast to rise.

2. Sift 2 ½ cups of flour into a large mixing bowl. Create a depression in the center of the flour.

3. Stir the risen yeast mixture and gradually incorporate it into the depression in the flour. Add a scant cup of lukewarm milk to the mixture and stir until a batter forms.

4. Let the batter rise for a little while longer while you prepare the next step.

5. In a separate bowl, cream together ½ cup of butter and ¾ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring continuously in one direction. Incorporate each egg fully before adding the next one.

6. Once the eggs are thoroughly mixed in, gradually add the risen batter, working in two to three spoonfuls at a time, and stirring well between each addition. Grate the peel of a lemon or an orange into the batter for a citrusy twist.

7. Before starting to work with the batter, make sure to thoroughly butter the Bundt or Napf Kuchen pan. Optionally, you can press blanched almonds into the grooves of the pan after buttering to add a decorative touch.

8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and set it in a warm place to rise for around 1 ½ to 2 hours. The batter should nearly double in size.

9. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature.

10. Once the batter has risen, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour. To prevent the top from browning too quickly, you can cover the cake with a lid or aluminum foil for the first part of the baking process.

11. After the hour is up, remove the cover and continue baking the cake until it is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

12. Once fully baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack to release the cake. Allow it to cool completely before serving.

Plain Bunt or Napf Kuchen is a delightful treat with a tender crumb and a touch of citrus flavor. It is perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or as a dessert for special occasions.

Similar recipe dishes include various types of Bundt cakes, such as chocolate Bundt cake, marble Bundt cake, and lemon Bundt cake. These cakes often use a similar batter base but showcase different flavors and variations. Experimenting with different ingredients can lead to endless possibilities for creating unique and delicious Bundt cake recipes.

So, why not give this Plain Bunt or Napf Kuchen recipe a try and indulge in a classic German cake that has stood the test of time? Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat!