German Pear Cake Recipes: How to Make a Delicious Dessert with Pears

Hello, Good News! Welcome to our blog, where we share with you the best recipes, tips, and tricks for making amazing desserts. Today, we are going to talk about one of our favorite cakes: the German pear cake, also known as pear kuchen. This cake is a classic and beloved dessert that has been around for centuries. It consists of a sweet pastry dough, usually made with butter, eggs, flour and sugar, topped with sliced pears and sprinkled with cinnamon and vanilla. The resulting cake is tenderly crumbly on the outside while moist and fluffy on the inside – an ideal balance of texture and flavor.

If you love pears and cakes, you will definitely enjoy this recipe. It is fairly simple to follow and can be whipped up from ingredients that are easily accessible. You can use any kind of pears you like, but we recommend using firm-ripe Bosc or Anjou pears, as they hold their shape well after baking. You can also spice up your cake with your choice of warm spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or add some nuts or chocolate chips for extra crunch and richness. However you choose to customize your cake, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

What is Kuchen and How to Make It

What is Kuchen?

Kuchen is the German word for “cake,” and it is used in other languages as the name for several different types of savory or sweet desserts, pastries, and gateaux. Most kuchen have eggs, flour and sugar as common ingredients while also, but not always, including some fat. The word “kuchen” covers as many distinct desserts as its English counterpart “cake”. However, the word “cake” covers both kuchen and torte, sometimes confused with one another. The key difference is that a torte is a kuchen that is decorated or layered with cream, frosting, ganache, or fruit based filling after baking. A kuchen is typically less decorative or fancy in nature.[^1^]

On the other hand, the word “kuchen” covers desserts that English would call “pie”, such as Apfelkuchen (apple pie). Examples of a torte made from a base kuchen include the Jewish Palacsinken Torte[^2^] and Mohn Torte (or Kindli). Varieties of kuchen include:

• A pie-like pastry, with a thick, “cakey” crust and a sweet custard based or chopped fruit topping, known as an Obstkuchen or a type of fruit cake.
• A rolled-pastry, specifically called Kuchenrolle, with a long spiral of dough sometimes filled with cream or jam, rolled, baked and then sliced to serve.
• A coffee cake-like pastry, marbled with veins and pockets of cinnamon, baked throughout; its primary components are butter and sugar.
• A cheese cake-like pastry, specifically called Käsekuchen, with a yeast raised crust, sometimes filled with fruit (cherry is most popular), and a creamy filling made from the German cheese Quark.
• A pan-fried pastry, specifically known as Pfannkuchen, a German pancake thicker than French Crepes and often filled with a sweet or savory filling.
• A layered pastry, commonly known as a Baumkuchen, made over a spit while brushing on layers of batter.
• A sheet-cake-like pastry, specifically known as Blechkuchen, with variations similar to other forms of kuchen with the key difference being that this form is baked on a sheet.[^1^]

How to Make Kuchen

The basic steps for making kuchen are similar to making any other cake. You will need to prepare the dough by mixing the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder) and then adding the wet ingredients (eggs, butter, milk). You will also need to prepare the topping by slicing the pears and tossing them with some sugar and lemon juice. Then you will need to spread the dough into a greased baking dish or pan and arrange the pears on top. Sprinkle some cinnamon and vanilla over the cake and bake it in a preheated oven until golden brown and cooked through. Let it cool slightly before serving.

However, there are some variations depending on the type of kuchen you are making. For example:

• If you are making a yeast-based kuchen like Käsekuchen or Baumkuchen, you will need to activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk and sugar before adding it to the flour mixture. You will also need to let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size before shaping and baking it.
• If you are making a rolled-pastry like Kuchenrolle, you will need to roll out the dough into a thin rectangle and spread the filling over it. Then you will need to roll up the dough from the long side and cut it into slices. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and bake them until golden and crisp.
• If you are making a pan-fried pastry like Pfannkuchen, you will need to make a thin batter by whisking together the eggs, milk, flour, and salt. Then you will need to heat some oil or butter in a skillet and pour some batter into it. Cook the pancake until bubbles form on the surface, then flip it over and cook the other side. Repeat with the remaining batter and serve with your choice of filling or topping.

Why Pears are Perfect for Baking

Pears are Juicy and Sweet

One of the reasons why pears are perfect for baking is that they are juicy and sweet. Pears have a high water content, which helps keep the cake moist and tender. They also have a natural sweetness, which enhances the flavor of the cake and reduces the need for added sugar. Pears have a mild and delicate taste that pairs well with many other ingredients, such as spices, nuts, chocolate, cheese, and cream.

Pears also have a variety of textures, depending on their ripeness and variety. Some pears are soft and buttery, while others are crisp and crunchy. You can choose the type of pear that suits your preference and the type of cake you are making. For example, if you want a cake with a smooth and creamy texture, you can use ripe Bosc or Anjou pears. If you want a cake with some bite and contrast, you can use firm Bartlett or Comice pears.

Pears are Nutritious and Healthy

Another reason why pears are perfect for baking is that they are nutritious and healthy. Pears are rich in dietary fiber, which helps regulate digestion and lower cholesterol levels. They also contain vitamin C, which boosts immunity and protects against infections. They also provide potassium, which helps maintain blood pressure and muscle function. Pears also have antioxidants, which fight against free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to cells.[^3^]

Pears are low in calories and fat, which makes them ideal for people who want to enjoy a delicious dessert without feeling guilty. One medium pear has only about 100 calories and 0 grams of fat.[^3^] Pears also have a low glycemic index, which means they do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels after eating. This helps prevent cravings and overeating later on.

German Pear Cake Recipes to Try at Home

German Pear Cake with Marzipan

This German pear cake with marzipan is a traditional German cake recipe that is perfect for fall and the holiday season. A moist marzipan cake baked in a springform pan along with pears poached in vanilla and white wine. It’s quick and easy to make.[^4^]

To make this cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/3 cup warm milk
• 1/3 cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 whole large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4-5 small pears
• 2 cups white wine
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 vanilla bean
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 cloves
• 7 oz marzipan
• 2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
• Powdered sugar for dusting

The steps for making this cake are as follows:

1. In a bowl of a stand mixer, stir together milk and 1 teaspoon sugar. Sprinkle yeast over mixture and let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes.
2. Add 1/4 cup flour, beating at medium speed until combined. Add whole egg, yolk, vanilla, salt, and remaining 1/3 cup sugar and beat until combined.
3. Reduce speed to low and gradually mix in 1 1/4 cups remaining flour. Increase speed to medium and add butter, then continue beating until doughis smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
4. Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Meanwhile, peel, core, and cut pears into quarters. In a large saucepan, bring wine, honey, vanilla bean, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to a boil. Add pears and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain pears and let cool slightly.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9-inch springform pan. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to prepared pan and press dough evenly over bottom and up sides of pan. Let rest for 10 minutes.
7. In a small bowl, knead marzipan with amaretto until smooth. Crumble marzipan mixture over dough. Arrange pears over marzipan, leaving some space between them.
8. Bake cake until golden and puffed, about 25 minutes. Let cool slightly on a wire rack.
9. Dust cake with powdered sugar and serve warm or at room temperature.

German Pear Cake with Streusel

This German pear cake with streusel is another easy and delicious cake recipe that you can make with fresh or canned pears. A soft and moist vanilla cake topped with juicy pears and crunchy streusel. It’s perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea.

To make this cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the cake:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4-5 medium pears
• Lemon juice
• For the streusel:
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

The steps for making this cake are as follows:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to butter mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Mix well after each addition.
4. Spoon batter into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Peel, core, and slice pears thinly. Sprinkle some lemon juice over them to prevent browning. Arrange pear slices over batter in a single layer.
6. In a small bowl, combine butter, sugars, cinnamon, salt, and flour with a fork or your fingers until crumbly. Sprinkle streusel over pears.
7. Bake cake for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let cake cool slightly on a wire rack before cutting into pieces and serving.

German Pear Cake with Almonds

This German pear cake with almonds is a gluten-free and dairy-free cake recipe that is moist, rich, and flavorful. A dense almond cake baked with fresh pears and topped with sliced almonds and powdered sugar. It’s great for any occasion.

To make this cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the cake:
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 2 cups almond flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3-4 ripe pears
• Lemon juice
• For the topping:
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Powdered sugar for dusting

The steps for making this cake are as follows:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar with an electric mixer until pale and thick, about 5 minutes. Add lemon zest and juice and mix well.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold into egg mixture with a spatula until well combined.
4. Peel, core, and chop pears into small pieces. Sprinkle some lemon juice over them to prevent browning. Fold pears into batter gently.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the batter evenly.
6. Bake cake for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cake cool completely on a wire rack before removing from pan.
8. Dust cake with powdered sugar and serve.

A Detailed Table Breakdown Related to German Pear Cake Recipes

The following table shows a detailed breakdown of the nutritional information, cost, and time for each of the three German pear cake recipes mentioned above. The values are based on one serving of cake, assuming that each recipe yields 12 servings. The nutritional information is obtained from [MyFitnessPal], the cost is estimated from [Walmart], and the time is calculated from the recipe instructions.

| Recipe | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Cost | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| German Pear Cake with Marzipan | 367 kcal | 15 g | 51 g | 6 g | $1.23 | 30 min | 25 min | 55 min |
| German Pear Cake with Streusel | 304 kcal | 11 g | 48 g | 4 g | $0.87 | 20 min | 40 min | 60 min |
| German Pear Cake with Almonds | 278 kcal | 15 g | 32 g | 8 g | $1.07 | 15 min | 45 min | 60 min |

FAQs about German Pear Cake Recipes

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh pears?

Yes, you can use canned pears instead of fresh pears for any of these recipes. However, you may need to drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the batter or topping. You may also need to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe, as canned pears are usually sweetened with syrup.

How do I store leftover German pear cake?

You can store leftover German pear cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To thaw, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours or in the microwave for a few seconds.

How do I serve German pear cake?

You can serve German pear cake warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. You can also serve it with some whipped cream, ice cream, custard, or yogurt for extra creaminess and flavor.

What kind of pears are best for baking?

The best kind of pears for baking are firm-ripe pears that hold their shape well after cooking. Some examples are Bosc, Anjou, Comice, or Concorde pears. Avoid using very ripe or soft pears that may become mushy or watery when baked.

What can I substitute for marzipan in the German pear cake with marzipan recipe?

If you don’t have marzipan or don’t like it, you can substitute it with almond paste, which has a similar texture and flavor but is less sweet. You can also make your own marzipan by blending together blanched almonds, powdered sugar, egg white, and almond extract in a food processor until smooth.

What can I substitute for almond flour in the German pear cake with almonds recipe?

If you don’t have almond flour or want to make this cake nut-free, you can substitute it with regular all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend. However, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe, as almond flour absorbs more moisture than wheat flour.

How do I make streusel for the German pear cake with streusel recipe?

To make streusel for the German pear cake with streusel recipe, you will need to combine butter, sugars, cinnamon, salt, and flour in a small bowl with a fork or your fingers until crumbly. You can also add some oats, nuts, or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. Then you will need to sprinkle the streusel over the pear layer before baking the cake.

How do I make kuchen dough for the German pear cake with marzipan recipe?

To make kuchen dough for the German pear cake with marzipan recipe, you will need to activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk and sugar in a bowl of a stand mixer. Then you will need to add some flour and beat until combined. Next, you will need to add the eggs, vanilla, salt, and more sugar and beat until combined. Finally, you will need to gradually mix in the remaining flour and butter and beat until the dough is smooth and elastic. Then you will need to transfer the dough to a greased bowl and let it rise until doubled in size.

How do I make a gluten-free and dairy-free German pear cake?

To make a gluten-free and dairy-free German pear cake, you can follow the German pear cake with almonds recipe, which is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. However, you will need to make sure that the ingredients you use are certified gluten-free and dairy-free, such as the almond flour, baking powder, and powdered sugar. You will also need to use a gluten-free and dairy-free parchment paper to line the pan.

How do I make a vegan German pear cake?

To make a vegan German pear cake, you will need to replace the eggs, butter, and milk in the recipes with vegan alternatives. For example:

• You can use flax eggs, which are made by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes before using.
• You can use vegan butter or margarine, which are usually made from plant-based oils and fats. You can also use coconut oil or vegetable oil as substitutes.
• You can use any plant-based milk, such as soy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or rice milk. You can also use water as a substitute.

You will also need to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipes, as some vegan alternatives may be sweeter or less sweet than regular ones.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this article about German pear cake recipes and learned something new. German pear cake is a delicious dessert that is easy to make and versatile to customize. You can use different types of pears, spices, nuts, chocolate, or cheese to create your own version of this classic cake. You can also make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan by using simple substitutions. Whether you serve it warm or cold, with or without cream or ice cream, German pear cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

If you liked this article, please check out our other articles on our blog for more recipes, tips, and tricks for making amazing desserts. Thank you for reading and happy baking!