"streusel Kuchen" Recipe

History of Streusel Kuchen:

Streusel Kuchen is a traditional German cake that has been enjoyed for generations. The word "streusel" means "crumb" in German, which perfectly describes the delicious topping that sets this cake apart. The cake itself is made with a unique ingredient - mashed potatoes. This might seem unusual, but the potatoes add moisture and texture to the cake, creating a soft and tender crumb.

The recipe for Streusel Kuchen is believed to have originated in Germany during the 18th century. It was originally a simple cake made with basic ingredients that were readily available, such as flour, potatoes, and butter. Over time, variations of the recipe emerged, with different regions and families adding their own twist to the classic cake.

Fun Facts about Streusel Kuchen:

1. Streusel Kuchen is traditionally served as a breakfast or brunch dish in Germany. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.

2. The streusel topping can be customized to suit your taste. You can add chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to the crumb mixture for extra flavor and texture.

3. Streusel Kuchen is often made for special occasions and celebrations, such as birthdays and holidays. It is a beloved cake that brings people together to enjoy its comforting flavors.

Now let's jump into the recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:
- 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup potato water
- 1/2 cup lard
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3-1/2 cups flour
- 1 cup yeast (or 1 Fleischman yeast cake dissolved in 1 cup lukewarm water)
- 2 eggs

For the Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- A few drops of vanilla extract or vanilla sugar

Instructions:

1. Start by making the sponge for the cake. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, potato water, lard, butter, and sugar. Cream the mixture together until well combined.

2. Gradually add the flour and yeast to the mixture, stirring well to incorporate. The dough will be sticky and thick.

3. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm place to rise overnight. This will help develop the flavors and create a light and airy texture.

4. The next morning, add the eggs, sugar, and remaining flour to the risen sponge. Mix well until a soft and pliable dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

5. Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each portion out to the size of a plate, about one inch thick. Place the rolled dough on well-greased pie tins and allow them to rise in a warm place until light and doubled in size.

6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

7. Once the cakes have risen, brush the tops with melted butter. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and egg yolk for the streusel topping. Add a few drops of vanilla extract or vanilla sugar for extra flavor. Use a coarse sieve to sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the tops of the cakes.

8. Place the cakes in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Allow the cakes to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Serve slices of Streusel Kuchen with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra treat.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you enjoyed making and eating Streusel Kuchen, you might also like these similar recipe dishes from around the world:

1. Coffee Cake: This American classic is similar to Streusel Kuchen but often includes a ribbon of cinnamon swirl. It is topped with a buttery streusel topping and is perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee.

2. Crumble Cake: This British dessert is made with a similar crumbly topping and is often filled with seasonal fruits, such as apples or berries. It is typically served with custard or cream.

3. Dutch Apple Pie: This rustic pie features a streusel topping and is filled with sweet and tangy apples. It is a popular dessert in the Netherlands and is often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

4. Swedish Cardamom Buns: These fluffy, spiced buns from Sweden are made with a sweet yeast dough and filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, and cardamom. They are often enjoyed with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

No matter which dish you choose, these similar recipes are sure to satisfy your craving for delicious, crumbly, and comforting treats. Enjoy!