Banana Quark Casserole

This delightful Banana Quark Casserole is a delicious and nutritious dessert that is sure to win over everyone at the table. It combines the creamy texture of quark cheese with the sweet richness of ripe bananas. The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a soft, moist, and flavorful treat. The subtle sweetness from the bananas pairs beautifully with the chocolatey raisins, adding an extra layer of taste. This casserole is wonderfully light, making it an excellent option for a satisfying dessert or a delectable snack. It's a versatile dish, enjoyed best warm from the oven but equally tasty when chilled. With its inviting golden top, it’s an eye-catching addition to any meal. The recipe is straightforward, using simple ingredients that blend perfectly. Overall, this is a must-try dish for anyone who loves easy-to-make, comforting desserts.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 600 g quark cheese
• 3 bananas
• 3 eggs
• 9 tablespoons semolina
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 100 g chocolate-covered raisins
• 3 tablespoons sour cream

Preparation Time

Total Time: 85 minutes
Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature. This helps in better mixing and ensures even cooking.
2. Mash the Bananas: Begin by peeling the bananas and mashing them into a smooth, uniform puree using a fork or a potato masher.
3. Mix the Quark, Eggs, and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, combine the quark cheese, eggs, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely and the eggs are well incorporated into the cheese.
4. Combine with Bananas: Add the mashed bananas into the quark mixture. Stir well to ensure the banana is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Preheat the Oven: While you prepare the mixture, preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.
6. Add Semolina and Raisins: Mix in the semolina and chocolate-covered raisins. Stir gently to combine. If preferred, regular raisins can be used in place of chocolate-covered ones.
7. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
8. Pour the Mixture: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
9. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the casserole is firm and a lovely golden color forms on top. The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your layer; thinner layers will require less time.
10. Cooling: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to slightly cool before serving.
11. Optional Garnish: For an extra decadent touch, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top before serving.

Tips

• Substitutions: If quark cheese is unavailable, ricotta or cottage cheese can be a good substitute.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge, then bake when needed.
• Baking Dish: Choose a baking dish that allows for a consistent layer for even cooking.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute semolina with gluten-free flour or almond meal for a gluten-free version.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free quark alternatives and flaxseed meal mixed with water to replace eggs.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or a fruit compote.
• Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luxurious dessert experience.

Best Places

1. BananenCafé - A cozy spot known for banana-based treats. Location: 123 Banana St, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
2. Quark Delight - Renowned for desserts made with quark cheese. Location: 45 Dessert Ave, Berlin, Germany.
3. The Casserole Lounge - Offers a wide variety of sweet and savory casseroles. Location: 67 Comfort St, Chicago, USA.
4. Café Dulce - Specializes in delightful banana dishes. Location: 89 Sweet Rd, Barcelona, Spain.
5. Raisin Rouge - Famous for chocolate and raisin infused desserts. Location: 21 Decadence Blvd, Paris, France.
6. Cozy Kitchen - Known for home-style desserts and a warm atmosphere. Location: 3 Cozy Ln, Sydney, Australia.
7. Sweets Haven - Offers a plethora of unique, sweet casseroles. Location: 11 Sugar Dr, Toronto, Canada.
8. Banana House - Focuses on banana-flavored treats with a twist. Location: 4 Jungle St, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
9. The Sweet Spot - A charming café with a focus on quark cheese dishes. Location: 13 Creamy St, Prague, Czech Republic.
10. Nourish Café - A health-focused café with gluten-free options. Location: 77 Wellness Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.