One wonders if you have a genuine “Kaisergugelhupf” (Emperor bundt cake) on your plate at the Café. Only bakers and baking enthusiasts, who do a little research would be familiar with the true consistency of the dough. After all, we know there are many different variations on the internet, and there is very large collections of fake recipes among them Continue reading A Kaiser, his mistress and a Gugelhupf
Up until now, I’ve only engaged with the concept of Apple Rose cupcakes or muffins in theory. At most, I’ve seen some pictures and read German recipes before I attempted to bake them myself. These muffins can be made not just with puff pastry but also using a yeast dough. These cupcakes are not only beautiful but also delicious, with the sweet, fruity flavor of … Continue reading Easy, tasty and pretty, Apple Rose Muffins
I have been in Leipzig several times, the first time 1997, only 8 years after the wall fell in the former DDR. It was just being rebuilt, and still looked gray with 40 years of decay. Leipzig has undergone significant change with the restoration of many historical buildings, the demolition of others, and the development of a modern transport infrastructure. It is one of the … Continue reading Leipzig claims to fame of J. S. Bach, but also a darker time
Mid-April in Germany marks the beginning of something truly special—white asparagus season. Known as “Spargel,” this pale, tender vegetable is more than just a springtime crop; it’s a culinary event. By early May, nearly every restaurant in Germany features Spargel dishes on their menu, from soups and salads to plates dressed in velvety Béchamel sauce. For me, Spargel is a taste of home, a reminder … Continue reading Delicious White Asparagus Soup for Spring
The Rhineland has some amazing sights. Just 1.5 hrs drive from my river cottage is the city of Trier. First settled by the celts, then the Romans 2000 years ago, it is the oldest city in Germany with a magnificent ancient gate or monument, the Porta Nigra Continue reading Trier, the most impressive ancient city in Germany
Every spring, as the days grow longer and the air carries the first hints of warmth, I find myself drawn to the comforting ritual of baking Easter Bread. This sweet yeast bread—Osterbrot, as we call it in Germany—has been part of my life since childhood. I recall making Easter Bread with my mother, the aroma of citrus and yeast filling our kitchen. We eagerly awaited … Continue reading Braided with Memory: My Easter Bread Tradition
The Alsace region with all its beauty is a real place for connoisseurs, but above all, it causes tourists to be amazed. The town of Colmar, is arguably the most delightful city in France! While staying in the Black Forest, I left one morning after breakfast to drive to the French side. Colmar, the third largest city in the region, is no longer a real small town with its almost 67,000 inhabitants, but is often regarded as such due to its intimacy and its enticing small town charm. My expectations were rewarded visiting this magnificent city. Continue reading Colmar, the most picturesque, historic town in the Alsace
