Authentic German Butter Cake (Butterkuchen)
A simple, yeasted German coffee cake, also called German butter cake, is a delightful pastry for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
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Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375 F.
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In a large bowl, combine 4 cups flour, fresh or dry yeast, lukewarm milk, and a pinch of sugar; mix briefly to form a sponge.
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Let the sponge rest in a warm place for 15 minutes.
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Add salt, egg, 7 tablespoons softened butter, and 3/4 cup sugar to the sponge; mix until the dough is smooth and forms a ball.
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Add up to 1/2 cup additional flour if necessary, then place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 15 to 30 minutes.
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Roll the dough to 1/2 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface and transfer to a 15x10-inch jellyroll pan; let it rest for 15 minutes.
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Dimple the entire surface of the dough with your fingers or a spoon.
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Mix 1/2 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon, then sprinkle over the dough. Distribute 9 tablespoons of butter pieces evenly over the top.
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Bake for 25 minutes, or until done and caramelized; broil for the last 3 minutes if desired, watching carefully to prevent burning.
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Optionally, dissolve 1/4 cup sugar in 1/4 to 1/2 cup water and brush onto the hot cake immediately after baking.
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To recrisp a defrosted cake, bake for a few minutes at 350 F.