Description
Classic German Streuselkuchen is a traditional crumb cake with a soft, buttery yeast dough topped with a sweet, crunchy streusel. Perfect for coffee time or dessert, this authentic German recipe is simple, versatile, and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 1/2 cups (440g) flour (divided)
- 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) butter (melted for dough, cold for streusel)
- 3/4 cup (180ml) milk
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Warm the milk slightly and dissolve the yeast with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine 3 cups flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
- Mix the ingredients until a dough forms, then knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Streusel Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup flour, sugar, and cinnamon (if using).
- Add cold butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingers until it forms coarse crumbs.
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Roll out the risen dough and transfer it to the baking sheet, pressing it evenly.
- Evenly distribute the streusel topping over the dough.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Fruit Version – Add sliced apples, plums, or cherries beneath the streusel for extra flavor.
- Nutty Twist – Sprinkle chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts into the streusel mixture.
- Spiced Streusel – Add nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, aromatic touch.
- Custard Filling – Spread a thin layer of vanilla custard over the dough before adding the streusel.
- Chocolate Lovers – Mix chocolate chips into the streusel for a sweet surprise.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- resting time: 1.5 hours
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dessert,cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: german
Keywords: German crumb cake, Streuselkuchen recipe, classic German cake, yeast cake with streusel, easy crumb cake