Baked Quark Dessert

This delightful baked quark dessert is a fluffy and creamy treat that is perfect for any occasion. It combines simple ingredients to create a smooth and delicious texture that melts in your mouth. This dish is both comforting and satisfying, making it a favorite among many. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust flavors and textures to suit your specific taste preferences. It's ideal as a breakfast, a dessert, or a snack with a hot cup of tea or coffee. With its rich flavors and impressive appearance, it is sure to impress guests and loved ones. Even if you are not familiar with quark, this recipe is an excellent introduction to its versatility in baking. Easy to prepare, this dish is a great choice for both beginner and seasoned bakers. Read on to discover how to create this delightful treat from start to finish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • Quark: 600 g
  • Yogurt or sour cream: 200 g
  • Eggs: 4
  • Sugar: 200 g
  • Semolina: 100 g

Spices:

  • Baking powder: 1 tsp
  • Vanilla: A pinch

Optional:

  • Raisins: To taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 55 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature before you begin baking.
  2. Prepare the baking forms by greasing them with some fat and sprinkling them with flour or semolina. Alternatively, line them with baking paper. Use two 18 cm diameter forms if available.
  3. If using raisins, rinse them under water and dry them using a towel to remove excess moisture.
  4. Melt the butter gently, then set it aside to cool slightly. This helps in incorporating it smoothly into the batter later.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and frothy. You can use a hand whisk for this step.
  6. Add the yogurt or sour cream to the egg mixture and combine well for a uniform base flavor.
  7. Next, incorporate the quark into the mixture, stirring to blend it evenly with the other ingredients.
  8. In a separate bowl, mix the semolina with the baking powder to distribute the leavening agent evenly.
  9. Combine the dry ingredients (semolina and baking powder) with the wet mixture in the larger bowl.
  10. Add the melted butter, ensuring it's slightly warm and not hot, to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.
  11. If using, fold in the raisins gently to distribute them throughout the mixture without crushing them.
  12. Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking forms.
  13. Place the forms in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. The dessert should be golden brown on top and set in the middle when done.
  14. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean if the dessert is fully baked.
  15. Once baked, remove the forms from the oven and allow the dessert to cool slightly before unmolding.
  16. If desired, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
  17. Optionally, serve with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the flavors.
  18. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
  19. Reheat gently if desired, as this dessert is also lovely when warmed.
  20. Enjoy with friends and family, savoring each creamy and flavorful bite.

Tips

  • Substitute quark with ricotta cheese for a similar texture.
  • Add citrus zest for a bright, fragrant flavor.
  • Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist.
  • Soak raisins in rum or brandy for a more decadent taste.
  • Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a healthier alternative.

Nutrition

  • Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

  • Gluten-Free: Replace semolina with almond flour.
  • Dairy-Free: Use plant-based yogurt and vegan quark substitutes.
  • Low-Sugar: Use a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy fresh berries or fruit compote on the side.
  • Pair with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a delightful experience.
  • Serve topped with a scoop of ice cream for a more indulgent treat.

Best Places

  • Cafe Europa - Known for its cozy atmosphere and delightful quark desserts. Location: 12 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
  • The Quark House - Offers a variety of quark-based dishes in a rustic setting. Location: 5 Quark Road, Berlin, Germany.
  • Sweet Retreat - Famous for its delicious and innovative takes on classic desserts. Location: 123 Baker Street, London, UK.
  • Casa de Queso - A hotspot for cheese lovers with a dedicated quark menu. Location: 7 Via Roma, Rome, Italy.
  • Bite of Delight - Renowned for their fusion of traditional recipes with modern twists. Location: 10 Orchard Road, Singapore.
  • The Dessert Gallery - Features an array of quark desserts in an elegant gallery setting. Location: 4 Art Lane, Kyoto, Japan.
  • Taste of Tradition - A charming cafe emphasizing authentic flavors and recipes. Location: 22 Calle de Servando, Madrid, Spain.
  • Gourmet Quark Café - A delightful café with an extensive quark dessert menu. Location: 1 East Square, Moscow, Russia.
  • Flavor Junction - Celebrated for its unique and tasty desserts in the heart of the city. Location: 8 Main Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
  • Heavenly Bites - A dessert haven offering a world of flavors and textures. Location: 15 Dessert Avenue, New York, USA.