Description
Kirschmichel is a traditional German cherry dessert featuring a moist, semolina-based batter studded with juicy pitted cherries. Baked until golden and soft with a slightly custardy center, this classic dish is naturally sweetened with vanilla and lemon zest, offering a perfect balance of fruity freshness and comforting texture. Serve it warm or at room temperature, ideally with a drizzle of vanilla sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for an authentic German treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb cherries, pitted (500 g)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, room temperature plus some flakes for topping (60 g)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (125 g)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons semolina (125 g)
- 1¼ cup all-purpose flour (150 g)
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup milk (240 ml)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) and generously butter a casserole dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Pit the cherries: Remove pits from fresh cherries, or if using frozen, defrost and thoroughly dry them with paper towels. For canned cherries, make sure they are well drained. Weigh out 1 lb (500 g) after pitting.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and foamy. Add the vanilla sugar or extract, lemon zest, eggs, and semolina. Stir everything together until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add dry ingredients and milk: Sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder over the wet mixture. Gently fold with a spatula to blend well. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring carefully to create a smooth batter. Lastly, fold in the pitted cherries evenly throughout the batter.
- Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into the buttered casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the top with small flakes of butter to promote a golden, slightly crispy crust.
- Bake the Kirschmichel: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. The dessert is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean but remains slightly moist to retain a tender crumb.
- Serve: Optionally dust the top with confectioners’ sugar. Serve the Kirschmichel hot, warm, or at room temperature, ideally accompanied by vanilla sauce to enhance its rich flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh cherries when in season for the best flavor, but frozen or canned cherries work well if prepared properly.
- Ensure the cherries are well drained or dried to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- Butter flakes on top add a lovely richness and a slightly crispy surface.
- The dessert can be served with vanilla sauce, cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar to enhance taste.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives accordingly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
