Strawberry Kuchen
A delightful strawberry kuchen featuring fresh berries and a tender, buttery crust, perfect for summer gatherings or brunch with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream 1/3 cup shortening and 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
- Sift together 2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture alternately with 3/4 cup milk, mixing after each addition.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 egg to the batter and blend well.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Wash and hull 1 quart of berries and place them evenly over the batter.
- In a separate bowl, blend 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup shortening, and 1/4 cup sugar to make a crumb topping.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the berries.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure your berries are fresh and ripe for the best flavor. If strawberries aren't available, you can use other berries like blueberries or raspberries, which also work well in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the strawberry kuchen warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a cup of tea, making it a fantastic addition to any gathering, much like the delightful Christmas Keeping Cake.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the kuchen with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic, then in foil, for up to 2 months. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strawberry Kuchen contains roughly 849 calories, with 11g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1351mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter. Frozen berries may not hold their shape as well as fresh ones, resulting in a slightly different texture.
What can I substitute for shortening?
For a healthier alternative, you can use coconut oil or unsalted butter instead of shortening. Both will add a rich flavor to the kuchen. If you prefer a non-dairy option, consider using a plant-based butter substitute.
How can I tell when the kuchen is done baking?
The kuchen is done when it's golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning, especially if your oven runs hot.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).