is a very special German treat. Literally translated it means "tree cake" which makes perfect sense when you look it. The cake is made in very thin layers, like rings of a tree trunk. These layers were originally created by hand, making the outside uneven, like the bark of a tree. Then, when the cake is taken off the spit and placed on its end, it is very tall with somewhat of a tree shape.
My baker friend tells me making this complicated cake is part of the final test for receiving your baker's certificate. I was also told, but can't confirm, that there aren't very many cake shops that make this cake because it is difficult and time-consuming even using the "modern" machinery rather than over an open spit.
We were lucky enough to see the cake being made when we were in Dresden and visited the Christmas market on the Neumarkt. We also found a shop not too far away where this is one of their specialties.
It is an exceptionally light and tasty treat that is a bit sweeter than most German cakes. It is also costs a bit more than the more common items. I should have taken a photo of the whole slice, but I was too busy eating before I thought to snap a photo.
If you want to see the whole process, watch this.
Andrew - thanks for stopping by. The first baumkuchen I saw was at a Christams market, so you may be on to something!
Posted by: German Gems | 30 October 2011 at 12:41
This is so cool. The Czechs do something similar called Trdlo. It is not in layers, but definitely does the wrapping around the stick over open fire part.
I like the chocolate covering though, that is a nice touch. Looks like it might be nice with a cup of Gluhwein.
Posted by: Andrew | 30 October 2011 at 10:45
@Cliff - I thought it was drier, but you have a point. :)
@Gems - Okay, I resolve to try another Baumkuchen! :)
Posted by: CN Heidelberg | 24 October 2011 at 15:24
CN - I actually think it's moister and sweeter than most other cakes, but everyone has their own recipe.
Cliff - no Strauss that I know of, but DH found prepackaged baumkuchen pieces at Edeka.
Posted by: German Gems | 20 October 2011 at 21:06
Loved that video -- thanks!
CN: let's be honest. Was it any dryer than any other German cake you've sampled? It seems the assumption is that you've got your fork in one hand and the tea- or coffee cup in the other.
Y'all have a Strauss store in your Nähe? Ours here in Regensburg sells Baumkuchen now and then fairly cheap, particularly around the holidays.
Posted by: cliff1976 | 20 October 2011 at 07:02
The whole process is so fascinating...but when I tried it, it just seemed way too dry to me. Did I just have a bad one?
Posted by: CN Heidelberg | 19 October 2011 at 21:49