Classic German Kuchen (Easy Coffee Cake) 

Classic German Kuchen (Easy Coffee Cake) ☕🍰

Kuchen (“cake” in German) is a beloved buttery, tender crumb cake often enjoyed with coffee. This version features a simple yeast dough topped with fruit, custard, or streusel—perfect for breakfast or dessert!

Ingredients *(9×13-inch pan)*

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup (50g) sugar

• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast

• ½ cup (120ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)

• 1 large egg, room temperature

• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping (Choose One):

• Fruit: Sliced apples, plums, or cherries

• Streusel: ½ cup flour + ¼ cup sugar + ¼ cup cold butter (rubbed together)

• Custard: 1 cup milk + 1 egg + 2 tbsp sugar + 1 tbsp cornstarch (simmered until thick)

For Dusting:

• Powdered sugar or cinnamon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. Dissolve yeast in warm milk + 1 tsp sugar. Let sit 5 mins until frothy.

2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Knead until smooth (~5 mins).

3. Cover and let rise 1 hour until doubled.

2. Assemble the Kuchen:

1. Press dough into a greased 9×13-inch pan.

2. Add topping:

   • Fruit: Arrange slices over dough.

   • Streusel: Sprinkle evenly.

   • Custard: Pour cooled custard over dough, then add fruit if desired.

3. Bake & Serve:

1. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 mins until golden.

2. Cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar.

💡 Tips:

✅ Quick yeast option: Use instant yeast (mix directly into flour).
✅ No yeast? Try a sourdough discard version (replace yeast with ½ cup starter).
✅ Serving: Best warm with coffee or whipped cream!

Variations:

• Apfelkuchen (apple) 🍎

• Pflaumenkuchen (plum) 🌸

• Streuselkuchen (crumb-topped) 🧈

This versatile German classic is comfort food at its finest! 😊

Want a savory twist? Top with cheese and onions for Zwiebelkuchen (onion cake)! 🧅