Oma's Recipe for Cheesecake - Käse-Sahne Torte

➤ by Gerhild Fulson

This amazing recipe for cheesecake has a no-bake filling nestled between layers of sponge cake. Instead of the traditional Quark used in this Käse-Sahne Torte, I use Greek yogurt with great success. And that's fantastic, because it's almost impossible to get Quark outside of Germany.

This is the type of cake you make to turn some heads! Isn't it stunning? Top it with whichever berry you'd like! Or add mandarin oranges to the filling. Classic German food!

 However, if you really, really want Quark, I'll let you in on my secret ... You can easily make your own! Check below.

Looks difficult ... really isn't ...

If possible, use an adjustable cake ring for assembling the cake. It's higher than a spring-form pan and is easier to remove at the end. However, a spring-form "ring" works as well.

This is one of those recipes that looks long and complicated. However, if you've made it once, you'll realize that it's really quite easy and rather quick to make. You just need to be organized and give yourself enough time to allow for the final chilling.

Somehow, this recipe for cheese cake makes me think of summertime. It is so cool and refreshing with the lemon "zing" that it's the perfect end to a summer dinner.

Are you wondering why this is called a "recipe for Cheesecake" without any cheese? That's because the traditional cake is make with Quark.

Quark is like a cottage cheese, only different. Since Quark is not readily available in places outside of Germany, many alternatives are tried in order to replicate the taste. For this recipe, Greek yogurt works. 

Oma says,

This is one of those German cake recipes you'll keep for when company's coming. It looks so impressive and always brings 'oohs' and 'aahs' when you bring it to the table. Serve with some fresh berries and extra whipped cream on the side if you wish.

How to make Quark ...

Since I first posted this recipe for cheese cake, I've discovered how to make my own Quark. Easily. Inexpensively. And, now I make it all the time. Get the recipe for it here!

Where can I buy Quark?

Quark can sometimes be very tricky to find outside of Germany, sadly. But if you do look hard enough at the dairy section in your local grocery store, you just might be able to find some! 

But that just allows you to make your own! I know that it can get frustrating after searching so hard for a product but never coming across it, but getting the chance to create something yummy with your own two hands can be so gratifying!

It really is an easy recipe to make, and it's so worth trying out. You won't be disappointed with the number of things you can do with quark, whether you want it added into a savory or sweet dish, it can be used for both!

Is quark healthier than yogurt?

Yes, believe it or not quark is better for you than yogurt! It also has more health benefits and is not as aggressive on your digestive system. Quark is very rich in protein and contains calcium and phosphorus! All of which are spectacular for your body.

Yogurts are high in fats and calories as well, while quark is very low-fat. It actually contains less than 1% fat and has a low calorie count. 

Quark makes for such a healthier alternative to yogurt and other dairy products like sour cream too! The texture and taste is so similar you can hardly tell the difference at all.

How long can Quark last?

Quark will last about the same as any fresh cheese will last in your fridge. You will start to notice a certain sourness to the quark when it's nearing the end of its time.

While quark already has a mild sourness to it resembling sour cream and cottage cheese, this sourness will be more potent and noticeable as a sign to make a new batch.

You want to try to finish your homemade quark typically within the first 10 days of making it. Though with its tastiness, it may not be around for that long! I know when I make it in our house, hubby and I eat it very quickly :) 

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Ready to make this Käse-Sahne Torte?

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