Baumkuchen (German Tree Cake) Recipe
Baumkuchen, often referred to as the “tree cake,” is a delightful, multilayered dessert originating from Germany. Its signature look, with thin, caramelized layers stacked one upon another, resembles the rings of a tree. This cake is an indulgent treat that will impress guests with its rich flavors of marzipan, dark chocolate, and a hint of orange from Grand Marnier. Ideal for special occasions, this cake requires a bit of patience as each layer is carefully baked, but the results are well worth the effort.
Category: Desserts
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 5 |
| Marzipan | 150g |
| Butter (softened) | 200g |
| Sugar | 120g |
| All-purpose flour (00 type) | 100g |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Vanilla pod | 1 |
| Powdered sugar | 100g |
| Apricot jam | 100g |
| Grand Marnier | 20g |
| Dark chocolate (finely chopped) | 150g |
| Coconut oil | 10g |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture
Begin by separating the egg yolks from the egg whites. You will need approximately 100g of egg yolks and 175g of egg whites (about 5 medium eggs). Place the egg yolks and egg whites in two separate bowls.
2. Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 240°C (464°F) on the grill setting. Allow it to fully heat.
3. Prepare the Marzipan Mixture
Cut the marzipan into rough cubes. Place it into the bowl of a stand mixer along with the powdered sugar. Add the softened butter, cut into small cubes, and mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes smooth and pale in color.
4. Add the Egg Yolks
Add the egg yolks into the marzipan mixture, a little at a time. Allow each addition to incorporate fully before adding more. Continue mixing for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is well combined.
5. Incorporate the Flour and Vanilla
Scrape the seeds from the vanilla pod and add them to the mixture. Sift in the flour along with a pinch of salt. Mix everything until you achieve a smooth batter.
6. Prepare the Cake Pan
Prepare a 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pan by greasing it and lining the base with a circle of parchment paper.
7. Bake the Layers
Spoon 2 tablespoons of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly across the base. Once the oven is ready, place the pan under the grill for 1-2 minutes, or until a golden-brown crust forms on top of the first layer.
8. Build the Layers
Remove the pan from the oven and gently spread another 2 tablespoons of batter over the top of the first layer. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 1-2 minutes. Repeat this process, building the layers one by one. The batter should be added in thin layers, each layer being baked until golden before adding the next.
9. Final Layer and Remove the Paper
Once you have finished adding all the layers, remove the parchment paper carefully. This will help achieve the distinct look of Baumkuchen with visible layers.
10. Prepare the Apricot Glaze
In a small saucepan, warm the apricot jam over low heat until it becomes smooth and runny. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the top of the cake with the warm jam.
11. Prepare the Chocolate Coating
Melt the dark chocolate along with the coconut oil over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Add the Grand Marnier and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
12. Glaze the Cake
Once the chocolate has cooled slightly but is still pourable, drizzle it evenly over the entire cake, ensuring it covers both the top and the sides. Use a spatula to smooth the chocolate coating for a neat finish.
13. Chill and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting of the chocolate glaze. Once set, slice and serve!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated fat | 12g |
| Sugar | 35g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Baumkuchen is a wonderful indulgence, rich in flavor, and with each bite, you’ll taste the dedication that goes into creating such a unique dessert. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cake is bound to impress. Enjoy the layered perfection that has made Baumkuchen a beloved treat across generations!
