What is Baumkuchen made of?

Baumkuchen is typically made with butter, sugar, eggs, flour, vanilla, and sometimes almond or marzipan. Its thin layers cook one by one to create the tree-ring look.

Why is Baumkuchen called 'tree cake'?

It's called 'tree cake' because when sliced, the rings resemble the growth rings inside a tree. Each layer browns under the broiler to form those lines.

Is Baumkuchen difficult to make at home?

It looks complex, but the broiler method makes it very manageable. You build it one thin layer at a time, making the process easier than it seems.

How many layers should a Baumkuchen have?

Home versions usually have 12 to 20 layers. Adding more layers enhances the ring effect, but even a dozen creates a beautiful result.

Can you make Baumkuchen without a spit?

Yes, you can use the broiler method, which allows you to recreate the traditional layered look without a rotating spit or special equipment.

Baumkuchen Guide: 5 Essential Tips for Truly Stunning Results

Name: Baumkuchen (German Tree Cake)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: Butter; Sugar; Eggs; Flour; Vanilla; Marzipan (optional); Chocolate glaze (optional); Mint leaves for garnish

Description

A light, elegant German layered cake baked one thin layer at a time, creating a beautiful tree-ring pattern and a caramelized, tender texture.

Ingredients

Butter
Sugar
Eggs
Flour
Vanilla
Marzipan (optional)
Chocolate glaze (optional)
Mint leaves for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the batter using butter, sugar, eggs, flour, vanilla, and optional marzipan.
Spread a thin layer of batter in a pan and place it under the broiler.
When the first layer turns golden, remove and spread the next layer.
Repeat layering and broiling until 12–20 layers are formed.
Cool the cake completely, slice, and serve to reveal the rings.

Notes

Keep layers thin for sharper rings.
Rotate the pan for even browning.
Chill before slicing for clean cuts.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Broiler
Cuisine: German

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 0
Sugar: 0
Sodium: 0
Fat: 0
Saturated Fat: 0
Unsaturated Fat: 0
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 0
Fiber: 0
Protein: 0
Cholesterol: 0