Citruskuchen Delight

Citruskuchen Delight is a delicious and beautifully tart dessert that will brighten any meal with its vibrant flavors. This recipe captures the essence of sun-kissed lemons, baked to perfection with a buttery crust and topped with a light, fluffy meringue. The base is a tender, sweet pastry that perfectly balances the richness of a lemony cream filling. The meringue, crisp on the outside and soft within, adds the final touch of elegance to this delectable treat. This dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a treat-yourself moment. It's an inviting dish that will impress friends and family with its refreshing taste and stunning appearance. Made with simple ingredients, it is a masterpiece of flavors and textures. Serve it chilled or slightly warm, and experience the joyous burst of citrus in every bite. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe guides you through crafting a perfect Citruskuchen Delight.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

200 g all-purpose flour
100 g softened butter
1/2 cup sugar
25 ml milk
1 egg white
7 g dry yeast

Lemon Cream:

120 ml heavy cream
2 tbsp cornstarch
6 tbsp sugar
2 lemons (zest and juice)
4 egg yolks

Meringue Topping:

1/2 cup sugar
3 egg whites
1 pinch salt
2 tsp vanilla sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 50 minutes
Includes: Preparation and Cooking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg white and continue beating until creamy.
Dissolve Yeast: Warm the milk slightly and dissolve the dry yeast in it. Add this yeast mixture to the butter mixture and combine thoroughly.
Form the Dough: Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spoon until you achieve a soft dough. If necessary, add more flour, but be cautious not to make it too firm.
Prepare Baking Pan: Line a baking pan with parchment paper. To prevent sticking, you may choose to lightly butter the paper and sides of the pan.
Shape the Dough: Place the dough into the pan, forming edges up the sides. Poke holes in the dough with a fork to prevent rising.
Bake the Base: Preheat the oven and bake the base for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Prepare Lemon Cream: Grate the zest of one lemon and juice both lemons. Combine the juice, heavy cream, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a pot over low heat. Stir continuously until thickened, then remove from heat.
Check the Dough: Ensure the base is baked through; it should be firm and slightly browned.
Make the Meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add vanilla sugar and sugar, continuing to beat until stiff and glossy.
Test Meringue: Once stiff enough, the mixture should not fall if the bowl is inverted over your head.
Assemble the Dessert: Spread the lemon cream evenly over the baked base. Top with meringue, spreading to edges to seal.
Brown the Meringue: Place the dessert back in the oven or use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue until golden.
Cool and Serve: Allow the dessert to cool before slicing to serve.

Tips

For a crisp base, ensure the dough is well-kneaded but not overworked.
Meringue peaks should be firm enough to hold their shape.
Remove any lemon seeds before juicing to avoid bitterness.

Variations

Substitute lime or orange for lemons for a different citrus flavor.
For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour for the base.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pair with a glass of sweet white wine for a delightful end to a meal.

Best Places

Ladurée - Famous for its exquisite desserts. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
Café Central - A charming spot with decadent pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Demel - Offers classic and luxurious sweets. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
Dominique Ansel Bakery - Known for innovative treats. Location: 189 Spring Street, New York City, USA.
Pâtisserie Sadaharu AOKI - Renowned for its sophisticated French-Japanese pastries. Location: 35 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, France.
Tartine Bakery - Celebrated for sublime baked goods. Location: 600 Guerrero Street, San Francisco, USA.
Café Savoy - Historic café with traditional pastries. Location: Vítězná 5, Prague, Czech Republic.
Cake Boy - Offers exquisite and creative cakes and pastries. Location: Unit A, Pod 1, Imperial Wharf, London, UK.
Conditorei Schober - Classic and beloved Swiss café. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.
Du Pain et des Idées - Known for rustic and flavorful pastries. Location: 34 Rue Yves Toudic, Paris, France.

Lai labi garšo! Enjoy your Citruskuchen Delight!