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–+ servings

German Plum Tart (Zwetschgenkuchen)

A rustic and irresistible German dessert featuring a buttery crust, juicy tart plums, and a crunchy cinnamon crumb topping. Simple, delicious, and perfect for any time of day.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for crust
  • ½ cup granulated sugar for crust
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup unsalted butter cold, for crust
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for crust
  • 2 lbs ripe plums preferably Zwetschgen
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for plum filling
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for plum filling
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour for crumb topping
  • ½ cup granulated sugar for crumb topping
  • ½ cup unsalted butter cold, for crumb topping
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for crumb topping

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Make the crust: In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Add the egg and vanilla extract. Knead lightly until a dough forms. Press evenly into a tart pan.
  • Chill the crust in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  • Prepare the plums: Halve and pit them. Toss with sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
  • Arrange the plums cut-side up on the chilled crust.
  • Make the crumb topping: Mix flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until crumbs form.
  • Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the plums.
  • Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the plums are bubbling.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness. Freeze for up to 3 months—thaw and reheat before serving. Use firm, ripe plums for best texture. Avoid overworking the dough and don’t skip chilling to ensure a tender crust.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 140mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.2mg
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