Kuchen Bars
Kuchen (pronounced “koo-ken” or “koo-gen”) is another term for German cake. Kuchen is a popular dessert with a cookie crust and custard filling, and often is topped with fruit. The Germans from Russia use a variety of fruit in kuchen, including berries, dates, apples, rhubarb or peaches.
Ingredients
Crust
- ⅞ cup canola oil (1 cup – 2 tablespoons)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Filling:
- 1½ cups half and half
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- Cinnamon (sprinkle on top after baking, optional)
- 5 fresh apples, peeled and thinly sliced
Directions
Beat crust ingredients well with mixer. Put in greased jelly roll pan. Put a layer of fresh sliced apples on the dough layer and then the filling. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 45 minutes until custard is set and crust is brown. Allow time to cool before serving. Store leftovers in refrigerator.
Source: Adapted from: Schott (Janke), A. (2012). Alma’s Favorite Recipes: Cooking & Memories from a German-Russian Farm Kitchen. Germans from Russia Heritage Collection.
