German Butter Cake Recipe
German Butter Cake recipe, also known as Butterkuchen, is a traditional dessert featuring a soft, yeast-based dough topped with a buttery, sugar-sprinkled layer. After baking, the cake is often garnished with sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar, making it a sweet, indulgent treat.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Hand mixer or stand mixer (optional)
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 packet 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk 110°F or 43°C
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
- 500 grams all-purpose flour
- 300 milliliters lukewarm milk
- ½ teaspoon almond extract or lemon zest
For the Topping:
- ¾ cup cold butter
- ⅔ cup packed brown sugar
- Sliced almonds optional, for garnish
Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk (110°F or 43°C). Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with the granulated sugar, salt, egg, vanilla extract, and softened butter. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, a little at a time. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula, and slowly add the lukewarm milk. Continue mixing until the dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
- Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this process.
Proof the Dough:
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp towel. Let the dough rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the Topping:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the cold butter with brown sugar. Cut the butter into small pieces and mix it with the sugar until crumbly. Set aside.
Shape the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Punch down the dough to remove air bubbles, then press it into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the brown sugar-butter mixture evenly over the dough. Optionally, sprinkle sliced almonds on top for extra crunch and flavor.
Bake the Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy!