Quark Strudel (dutch Cheese) Recipe

Quark strudel, also known as Dutch cheese strudel, is a delicious dessert that brings together the rich and creamy flavors of quark cheese with a flaky and buttery pastry. With a history dating back centuries, this recipe has become a favorite in many European countries.

To prepare this delectable treat, let's start by making the strudel dough. Keep in mind that a traditional strudel dough is thin and elastic, so it's crucial to work with patience and care. After preparing the dough, allow it to rest while you gather the ingredients for the cheese filling.

For the cheese filling, you'll need half a pound of quark cheese. Quark cheese is a creamy and mild fresh cheese that originated in Germany and is popular throughout Europe. To achieve a smooth consistency, rub the quark cheese through a coarse sieve or colander.

Next, add a pinch of salt to the quark cheese. This will enhance the flavor of the filling. Incorporate the yolks of two eggs and one whole egg into the mixture.

To add a hint of sweetness to the filling, sweeten it to taste. You can use granulated sugar or any other sweetener that suits your preference.

For a delightful citrusy aroma, grate the peel of one lemon and add it to the mixture. This will infuse the filling with a refreshing and zesty flavor.

To provide a contrasting texture and a nutty taste, add two ounces of sweet almonds to the filling. It's important to blanch and pound the almonds beforehand so that they're finely chopped and blend well with the other ingredients. Additionally, include about four bitter almonds, which will lend a slightly bitter note that perfectly complements the overall flavor profile.

For a touch of natural sweetness, incorporate four ounces of sultana raisins into the mixture. The raisins will add a burst of juiciness and a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese.

For an added burst of flavor, finely chop a small amount of citron. This citrus fruit, often used in baking, has a tangy and slightly sour taste that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Add approximately one tablespoon of chopped citron to the filling.

Now that you have prepared the cheese mixture, it's time to assemble the quark strudel.

Roll out the rested strudel dough as thinly as possible. The thinness of the dough is crucial as it ensures a perfect balance between the rich filling and delicate pastry.

Spread the cheese mixture evenly onto the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This will prevent the filling from overflowing during baking.

Once the filling is evenly distributed, carefully roll the strudel dough, starting from one end. Be gentle when rolling to avoid tearing the dough.

Now, place the rolled-up strudel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush the top of the strudel with sweet cream. This will give the pastry a golden and slightly caramelized finish.

Bake the quark strudel in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

Once baked, remove the quark strudel from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, sliced into generous portions.

Traditionally, quark strudel is enjoyed on its own, but you can also dust it with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. For those who prefer a more indulgent treat, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese filling.

Fun fact: Quark strudel is believed to have originated in Austria and Germany, where it became a staple dessert in their culinary traditions. The use of quark cheese in this recipe dates back several centuries, and it has remained a beloved and timeless dessert ever since.

Similar to quark strudel, there are many other delicious variations of filled pastries in different cuisines around the world. Apple strudel, for example, is a popular dessert in Austria that features thinly sliced apples, cinnamon, and raisins nestled in the flaky pastry.

Another similar dish is the Hungarian túrós rétes. Túrós ételt, a type of cottage cheese, is used as the filling, along with sugar, vanilla, and sometimes raisins. This sweet cheese-filled pastry is rolled into a cylinder and baked until golden and crispy.

In Sweden, there's a beloved pastry called Ostkaka, which translates to "cheesecake." It's made with heritage farmer's cheese, sugar, eggs, and sometimes cream. This creamy dessert is usually served with whipped cream and lingonberry sauce.

In conclusion, quark strudel is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy and rich flavors of quark cheese with a flaky pastry. With its centuries-old history and versatility, it has become a beloved treat across various European countries. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a dollop of cream or a scoop of ice cream, quark strudel is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving for more.

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