Discover the deliciousness of a Classic German Cheesecake, a delightful Käsekuchen with a rich cottage cheese layer and a buttery base. This classic German cake is perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy family dinners. Follow this easy-to-make classic german cheesecake recipe that is not only delicious but also visually stunning with a mixed berry sauce and fresh fruit garnish.
This recipe uses homemade vanilla sugar for a richer flavour—learn how to make your own homemade vanilla sugar.
Why You Will Love This Classic German Cheesecake
- Rich and Creamy: The smooth cottage cheese combined with thick sour cream creates a luscious texture that melts in your mouth.
- Buttery Base: A perfect balance of sweetness and crunch from the buttery base adds a delightful contrast to the creamy topping.
- Versatile: Decorate it with a mixed berry sauce or enjoy it plain with a dusting of icing sugar. Either way, it’s bound to impress.
This baked cheesecake is a showstopper, with its rich creaminess and deliciously sweet and tangy berry topping. Whether served plain or adorned with fruit, it’s a dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Baked Cheesecake (Käsekuchen) Recipe
Ingredients
For the Base
- 250 g / 2 cups / 8.8 oz Flour
- 150 g / 3/4 cup / 5.3 oz Sugar
- 1 packet Dr Oekter Vanilla Sugar or 2 tsp Homemade Vanilla Sugar
- 1 Large Egg
- 125 g / 1/2 cup / 4.4 oz Butter, cold, cubed
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 5 Large Eggs
- 200 g / 1 cup / 7 oz Sugar
- 5 tbsp / 1.6 oz Flour
- 500 ml / 2 cups / 16.9 oz Thick Sour Cream
- 500 g / 2 cups / 17.6 oz Smooth Cream Cheese
- Juice of 1 Lemon
Optional Mixed Berry Sauce
- 2 cups Frozen Mixed Berries
- 2 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch
- 2 tbsp Cold Water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare a 24cm Springform Pan
- Spray with non-stick spray and line with baking paper.
Make the Base
- On a countertop, mix the flour, sugar, and homemade vanilla sugar.
- Create a well in the centre, add the egg, and mix with the dry ingredients.
- Add the cold butter cubes into the well and mix until combined.
- Knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms.
- Press the dough into a flat circle to fit the springform pan, ensuring it covers the bottom evenly.
Prepare the Cottage Cheese Layer
- Separate the eggs.
- In a large bowl, mix the egg yolks, sugar, cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth.
- Add the flour and lemon juice, using a whisk to remove any lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until firm peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture.
Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the prepared base.
- Bake for 1 hour or until a cake tester inserted in the centre comes out clean.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool.
- To transfer your cheesecake onto a serving dish, use a cake lifter similar to the one pictured below. This tool is essential because you need to remove the baking paper and cannot turn the cheesecake upside down.
Optional Mixed Berry Sauce
- In a saucepan, heat the sugar and frozen berries.
- In a cup, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the berry saucepan, bring to a boil, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, mashing the berries with a potato masher.
- Allow the sauce to cool completely before spreading it over the cooled cheesecake.
- Decorate with fresh strawberries and blueberries.
Notes
Variation of the Classic German Cheesecake Recipe : Chocolate Lover’s Cheesecake
Indulge your sweet tooth with a decadent twist on the classic baked cheesecake. This variation features a rich chocolate sauce drizzled over the creamy cheesecake and is adorned with elegant chocolate decorations. Perfect for chocoholics, this cake combines the smoothness of cream cheese with the deep, luxurious flavour of chocolate, making it an irresistible treat for any special occasion.
I Would Love to Hear From You
Have you tried this Classic German Cheesecake recipe? Share your experience and any variations you’ve made. I’d love to hear your feedback and see your beautiful creations! Leave a comment below or tag me on social media.
