German Cheesecake (Käsekuchen) Recipe
Käsekuchen is a classic German cheesecake that is creamy, slightly tangy, and easy to make at home. If you are new to baking, our beginner baking guide can help you learn simple tips before you start.
Why make this recipe
This Käsekuchen uses simple ingredients and gives a light, fresh taste that many people enjoy. It is a good choice for guests, family, or a cozy weekend treat and follows a straightforward method similar to other simple meals like our easy homemade pizza everyone will love.
{image_template}
Ingredients
- 250 g quark
- 200 g cream cheese
- 150 g sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 150 g digestive biscuits (for base)
- 75 g unsalted butter (melted)
For a full dinner, you can pair the cake with a savory main like this grilled salmon recipe.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Crush the digestive biscuits and mix with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
- In a large bowl, combine quark, cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the biscuit base.
- Bake for about 50–60 minutes until set and lightly golden.
- Let it cool, then refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
If you want a dessert table, you can also bake something small like our homemade chocolate chip cookies.
Serving
- Remove the cake from the springform pan, place on a serving plate, and slice with a sharp knife.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. A dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a fruit compote goes well with Käsekuchen.
Storage
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
- You can freeze slices in airtight containers for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Tips
- Use full-fat quark and cream cheese for the best texture.
- Beat the mixture until smooth but avoid overmixing.
- If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil in the last 15 minutes of baking.
- For a meal idea contrast, consider serving the cake after dishes like these easy flavor-packed beef tacos you’ll crave every day.
Variations
- Lemon zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for more citrus flavor.
- Vanilla: Use 1/2 teaspoon almond extract instead of vanilla for a different note.
- Crust: Replace digestive biscuits with graham crackers or make a nut crust.
FAQs
Q: What is quark?
A: Quark is a soft, fresh dairy product popular in Europe. It is similar to thick yogurt or soft cheese.
Q: Can I use only cream cheese?
A: Yes, but the texture and taste will be richer and less light than when using quark.
Q: Do I need a water bath?
A: No, this recipe does not need a water bath, but you can use one to reduce cracking.
Q: Can I use a different pan size?
A: A 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan works well; adjust baking time slightly if you use a different size.
Käsekuchen
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Crush the digestive biscuits and mix with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
- In a large bowl, combine quark, cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the biscuit base.
- Bake for about 50–60 minutes until set and lightly golden.
- Let cool, then refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
- Remove the cake from the springform pan, place on a serving plate, and slice with a sharp knife.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. A dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a fruit compote goes well with Käsekuchen.
