"kasha Kuchen" Or Cherry Cake Recipe

History and Fun Facts:

Kasha Kuchen, also known as Cherry Cake, is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This delectable cake is said to originate from traditional German and Eastern European cuisine. The combination of a light, fluffy cake and sweet, tart cherries creates a perfect harmony of flavors.

Aunt Sarah, with her resourcefulness, created a delicious variation of the famous custard pie by adding a layer of fresh cherries to the bottom crust. She poured the custard over the cherries and baked it to perfection. This innovative twist not only added a burst of flavor but also showcased Aunt Sarah's creativity in the kitchen.

Cherries have a long history in culinary traditions around the world. They are known for their vibrant color, juicy flesh, and distinct sweet-tart taste. In many cultures, cherries symbolize abundance, good fortune, and the arrival of spring. They are often celebrated in various sweet treats, including cakes, pies, and pastries.

Now, let's delve into the recipe for Aunt Sarah's famous Kasha Kuchen or Cherry Cake.

Kasha Kuchen Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the cake batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk

For the cherry filling:
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

For the custard:
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.

5. In another bowl, toss the cherries with the sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract until well coated.

6. Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan. Top with the cherry filling, spreading it evenly over the batter.

7. In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks for the custard. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

8. Pour the custard over the cherry filling, covering it completely. Top with the remaining cake batter, spreading it evenly over the custard.

9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Serve the Kasha Kuchen chilled or at room temperature. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

Fun Fact: In Aunt Sarah's recipe, she mentioned that for a variation of this cake, you can substitute sliced bananas for cherries on top of the pie. This shows how versatile and adaptable the Kasha Kuchen recipe can be, allowing for a delicious twist using different fruits.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you enjoyed the Kasha Kuchen with its cherry filling and custard, there are several other cake recipes you might want to explore:

1. Black Forest Cake: This German dessert features layers of chocolate cake with cherry filling and whipped cream. It's a rich and indulgent treat for chocolate and cherry lovers.

2. Cherry Clafoutis: A classic French dessert, this rustic custard-like cake is made with fresh cherries baked in a sweet batter. It's best served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.

3. Cherry Upside-Down Cake: Similar to a pineapple upside-down cake, this recipe uses cherries instead. The cherries are caramelized and placed on the bottom of the pan before the cake batter is added, creating a beautiful presentation when the cake is flipped over.

These recipes offer different ways to enjoy the delightful combination of cherries and cake, allowing you to explore various flavors and textures. So go ahead and indulge in these delicious treats that celebrate the natural sweetness of cherries.