Molehill Cake with Quark

Here’s a delicious recipe for Molehill Cake with Quark, a delightful twist on the classic molehill cake, incorporating the creamy richness of quark cheese for a unique texture and flavor. It’s perfect for a special occasion or when you want to treat yourself to something indulgent!

Ingredients (Serves 8-10):

For the cake:

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (120g) mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)

For the quark filling:

• 1 cup (240g) quark cheese (or substitute with cream cheese if unavailable)
• 1/2 cup (120g) heavy cream, whipped
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)

For the topping:

• 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• A drizzle of honey or chocolate syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the quark filling:

• In a medium bowl, combine the quark cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using). Mix until smooth.
• Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined and fluffy.

3. Assemble the molehill cake:

• Once the cake has cooled completely, slice it in half horizontally to create two layers.
• Spread a generous amount of the quark filling over the bottom layer.
• Place the second cake layer on top.
• Spread more quark filling on top of the cake and around the sides. Use a spatula to smooth the filling evenly.

4. Decorate the cake:

• Arrange the banana slices on top of the cake.
• Sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch (optional).
• Drizzle with honey or chocolate syrup for an extra touch of sweetness (optional).

5. Serve and enjoy:

• Slice and enjoy this delightful Molehill Cake with Quark—a delicious twist on the classic molehill cake, featuring creamy quark filling and banana flavors in every bite! 🍌🍰

Tips:

• Make ahead: The quark filling can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the cake.
• Flavor variations: You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the quark filling for a spiced flavor, or use other fruits like berries or peaches to top the cake.
• Quark substitute: If you can’t find quark, cream cheese can work as a substitute, but quark gives a slightly tangier and lighter texture.

This Molehill Cake with Quark is a unique and delicious treat that combines the flavors of banana with creamy quark filling for a delightful twist on a classic cake!