German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie

This German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of creamy vanilla custard with the tartness of sour cherries. Perfect for gatherings, this cake is sure to impress your guests and family alike. Its unique no-roll shortcrust pastry makes it accessible for bakers of all levels, while the creamy filling is simply irresistible. Whether served at breakfast, as a snack, or at a special occasion, this cake stands out with its traditional German flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The no-roll pastry saves time and effort, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy quark and tart cherries creates a mouthwatering contrast.
• Versatile Dessert: Suitable for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a sweet ending to dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for parties and family gatherings.
• Traditional Touch: Enjoy a slice of authentic German cuisine right in your home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this German Cherry Cake recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will also make cleanup easier later!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 9-inch springform pan
• Colander
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the pastry and custard filling effortless and ensures even consistency.
• 9-inch springform pan: Allows easy removal of the cake without damaging its shape.
• Colander: Essential for draining excess liquid from cherries and quark, preventing sogginess in your pie.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

• 50 grams flour
• 125 g butter
• 150 grams sugar
• 1 packet of vanilla sugar
• 1 egg

For the Filling

• 750 g quark
• 100 ml milk
• 2 egg yolks
• 25 g butter melted in the micro
• 2 sachets vanilla pudding custard powder (Dr Oetker) (or 80 g cornstarch + 1 1/2 vanilla bean pods scraped out)
• 130 g sugar
• 2 egg whites
• 60 g sugar

For the Topping

• 2 cups cherries (sour cherries, Rainier etc.)

How to Make German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Drain the cherries if using canned ones.
• Drain the quark in a colander for about 10 minutes.
• If using Greek yogurt, start with 1 kg and drain overnight in a sieve lined with paper towels, then weigh out 750 g.

Step 2: Make the Shortcrust Pastry

• In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, combine 250 g flour, 125 g butter, 150 g sugar, one packet of vanilla sugar, and one egg.
• Mix until well combined.
• Shape into a ball or disk and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Quark Filling

• While chilling the dough, mix together 750 g quark, 100 ml milk, two egg yolks, 25 g melted butter (cooled), two packets of vanilla pudding powder (or cornstarch), and 130 g sugar until smooth.
• In another bowl, whisk two egg whites with 60 g sugar until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the quark mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

• Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Press two-thirds of it into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
• Use your fingers to create a rim around the edges with the remaining dough.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

• Pour the quark mixture into the crust and evenly sprinkle drained cherries on top.
• Bake in a preheated oven at about 170-180°C (350°F) for approximately 60–70 minutes.

Now you have completed your German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie! Enjoy every slice!

How to Serve German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie

This delightful German Cherry Cake is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dessert experience. Whether enjoyed alone or with accompaniments, this cake is sure to please everyone.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Whipped cream adds a light, airy texture and balances the tartness of the cherries.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast, melting beautifully over warm slices of cherry custard pie.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• Adding chocolate sauce can elevate the dish, creating a rich flavor combination that complements the cherries.

Accompany with Fresh Berries

• Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries add a vibrant color and refreshing burst of flavor.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Serving this cake alongside your favorite coffee or tea enhances its flavors and makes for a perfect afternoon treat.

How to Perfect German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie

To achieve the best results when making your German Cherry Cake, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use fresh cherries: Fresh sour cherries will provide the best flavor and texture compared to canned options.
• Chill the dough properly: Chilling the shortcrust pastry ensures it holds its shape during baking and results in a flaky texture.
• Don’t skip whipping egg whites: Whipping egg whites until stiff and folding them into the quark mixture creates a light and airy filling.
• Check oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated accurately; an oven thermometer can help maintain consistent heat.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool completely helps set the filling, making it easier to cut neat slices.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like nuts or coconut flakes to add extra flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie

Pairing side dishes with your German Cherry Cake can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy option that adds tanginess and pairs well with the sweet flavors of cherry custard pie.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and complements the richness of the cake.
3. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses offers a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the dessert.
4. Chocolate Mousse: Indulging in chocolate mousse can create an elegant dessert pairing for special occasions.
5. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti can be enjoyed as a side snack, providing a delightful texture contrast.
6. Nutty Granola: Sprinkling granola on top adds crunch and enhances flavors, especially when paired with yogurt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to avoid them.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right texture. If you skip this step, your crust may become too soft and difficult to work with.
• Using canned cherries without draining: Not draining canned cherries can lead to a soggy pie. Always drain them well before adding to your filling.
• Overmixing the quark mixture: Overmixing can cause the filling to become too airy and lose its creamy texture. Mix just until combined for the best results.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the cake while it’s still hot can cause it to fall apart. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: The German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• • Container: Use an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.

Freezing German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie

• • Duration: You can freeze this pie for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Wrap the pie in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container for optimal freshness.

Reheating German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used! Just make sure they are pitted and preferably tart for that classic flavor.

What type of quark should I use?

You can use either regular quark or low-fat quark. Both will give you a deliciously creamy filling.

How do I know when my pie is done baking?

The pie is ready when the edges are set and slightly golden. The center may still jiggle slightly but will firm up as it cools.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a different twist on this German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie.

Is this cake suitable for special diets?

This cake contains dairy and gluten. For gluten-free options, substitute with gluten-free flour and ensure your pudding powder is also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

German Cherry Cake – Cherry Custard Pie is a delightful dessert that combines creamy custard with tart cherries perfectly. This versatile recipe allows room for customization, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether served at breakfast or as a sweet end to dinner, it’s sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness!