Fluffy Kaiserschmarren with Red Currant Jam

Kaiserschmarren – Traditional Austrian Dessert Recipe

Kaiserschmarren, a beloved Austrian dessert, is a soft, fluffy, and slightly caramelized pancake-like dish that’s traditionally enjoyed as a dessert or even as a sweet main course. Often served with a variety of fruit preserves, it has a rich flavor profile enhanced with the subtle sweetness of vanilla and a touch of rum. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special treat for guests. Follow the steps carefully to create this indulgent dessert, which will impress anyone with its texture and rich flavors.

Ingredients:

Nutritional Information (per serving):

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:
   Begin by preparing the batter for your Kaiserschmarren. In a medium-sized bowl, sift the all-purpose flour to remove any lumps. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds, adding them to the flour. Add a pinch of fine salt to the mix for balance. Gradually incorporate the milk, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth. Add the rum, followed by the sugar, and mix well until it dissolves. Crack the eggs into the batter and whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth, somewhat liquid batter.

2. Cook the Batter:
   Heat a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt and coat the surface of the pan. Once the butter is hot, pour the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom. Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges begin to set and turn golden brown.

3. Flip the Kaiserschmarren:
   When the base of the Kaiserschmarren has developed a nice golden crust, it’s time to flip the pieces. Divide the batter into four sections, making it easier to turn each portion individually. Use a spatula or fork to carefully flip the pieces of batter over, cooking the other side for another 2-3 minutes with the lid on. The key here is to cook the batter through while creating a lightly crispy exterior.

4. Shred and Caramelize:
   Once the second side has cooked, remove the lid and, using two forks, tear the Kaiserschmarren into rough, irregular chunks. These pieces should be golden and slightly crispy on the edges. Allow them to cook uncovered for another 2 minutes, just long enough for the sugar to caramelize, which will give the dessert a lovely golden hue.

5. Final Touches:
   Sprinkle the remaining 20g of granulated sugar over the pieces and let them caramelize for a couple of minutes until the sugar forms a deliciously sweet coating on the chunks. Once done, cover the pan for a few moments to let the sugar fully melt into the dessert.

6. Serve:
   Once the Kaiserschmarren is beautifully caramelized and ready, remove it from the heat. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve immediately while it’s still warm. For an extra touch of sweetness, serve with a spoonful of homemade or store-bought red currant jam, which will complement the richness of the dish with its tartness.

Serving Suggestions:
While traditionally served as a dessert, Kaiserschmarren can also be enjoyed as a cozy breakfast or brunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try it with other fruit preserves like raspberry or strawberry jam, or even with a fresh berry compote.

Pro Tip:
For a truly authentic touch, you can add a small splash of vanilla extract to the batter in addition to the vanilla bean for extra flavor depth. You can also customize this dish by adding fruits such as raisins or apples during cooking, giving it a unique twist to suit your tastes.

Conclusion:
Kaiserschmarren is a dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Its soft texture, combined with the rich flavors of vanilla, rum, and sugar, creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it with jam or enjoy it plain, this classic Austrian recipe will surely become a favorite in your household.