Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic German Cheesecake, or Käsekuchen, is light, fluffy, and delicately tangy thanks to the use of quark cheese. Unlike the dense American version, this European classic features a tender crust and a custard-like filling that’s subtly sweet and perfectly balanced—ideal for holidays, gatherings, or afternoon coffee.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

for the crust

all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggvanilla extractbaking powdersalt

for the filling

quark (or a mix of ricotta and Greek yogurt as a substitute)eggsyolksugarvanilla pudding mix (dry)lemon juicemilkbuttermelted buttervanilla extract

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a springform pan.

For the crust, mix flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, butter, egg, and vanilla extract until a soft dough forms.

Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan to form a crust.

In a large bowl, beat eggs, yolks, and sugar until pale and fluffy.

Add quark, vanilla pudding mix, lemon juice, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.

Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 15–20 minutes to prevent cracking.

Cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Servings and timing

Serves: 10–12Preparation time: 25 minutesBaking time: 60 minutesCooling time: 4+ hoursTotal time: 5–6 hours

Variations

Add raisins soaked in rum for a traditional touch.

Dust with powdered sugar or top with fruit compote.

Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor.

Swap the crust with a cookie or biscuit base for a twist.

storage/reheating

Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.Can be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge.Best served chilled or at room temperature—no reheating required.

FAQs

What is quark and where can I find it?

Quark is a soft, fresh cheese popular in Europe. Some grocery stores carry it; if not, substitute with ricotta mixed with Greek yogurt.

Can I make this crustless?

Yes, it will still bake well, but the crust adds structure and flavor.

Why use pudding mix?

Dry pudding mix helps stabilize the filling and adds a silky texture.

Can I use cream cheese instead of quark?

Cream cheese is denser and richer, but you can blend it with sour cream to lighten it up.

Why does my cheesecake crack?

It may cool too quickly—use a water bath or let it rest in the oven after baking to help prevent cracking.

Conclusion

Authentic German Cheesecake is a timeless dessert with a light, fluffy texture and balanced flavor that sets it apart from richer American styles. Whether you’re reconnecting with heritage or trying something new, this cheesecake is a beautiful, elegant treat that’s sure to become a favorite.