Delicious Sweet Pancake Casserole with Quark Filling

If you are looking for a delightful and unique breakfast or dessert idea, this Sweet Pancake Casserole with Quark Filling is just what you need! Combining the comforting texture of pancakes with the rich, creamy flavor of quark cheese, this dish is a sure hit for any occasion. Follow this easy recipe to create a scrumptious treat that everyone will love.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This pancake casserole is an excellent blend of flavors and textures. The soft, fluffy layers of pancakes wrap around a delicious filling of quark cheese, making every bite an experience to remember. Perfect for a family breakfast, a potluck, or a special brunch, this dish is versatile and easy to make ahead.

Ingredients You Need

To make this Sweet Pancake Casserole with Quark Filling, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pancakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 1 cup quark cheese (or cottage cheese as an alternative)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional for a tangy twist)

For Assembling:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this will make the pancakes tough.

Step 2: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter until you have a stack of pancakes. Set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Quark Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the quark cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, sour cream, and lemon juice (if using) until smooth and well combined. The filling should have a creamy and slightly thick consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Lay a pancake flat on a clean surface, spread a generous amount of the quark filling over it, and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled pancake seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining pancakes and filling.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Brush the tops of the rolled pancakes with melted butter to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust the top with powdered sugar if desired, then slice and serve warm. This dish pairs perfectly with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey.

Tips and Variations

1. Substitute Ingredients: If you can’t find quark cheese, ricotta or cottage cheese is an excellent alternative. Adjust the sugar level in the filling to suit your taste.

2. Add Flavor: Feel free to add some zest to the filling by including orange or lemon zest for a citrusy twist. Adding chocolate chips or raisins to the filling can create a delightful surprise.

3. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the pancakes and filling a day in advance. Store the pancakes and filling separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply assemble and pop it in the oven.

4. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Nutritional Benefits

This Sweet Pancake Casserole with Quark Filling is not just tasty but also nutritious. Quark cheese is high in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet. Pancakes provide a source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy, while the sour cream adds a bit of healthy fat that enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.

Conclusion

This Sweet Pancake Casserole with Quark Filling is a wonderful addition to any meal plan. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s sure to impress your family and guests. Easy to make and loaded with flavor, this recipe is perfect for those who love a sweet and creamy treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk for buttermilk, and dairy-free cream cheese for quark.

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Simply place the cooled leftovers in an airtight container and freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until warmed through.

3. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit, fruit compote, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

By following this recipe, you will be able to create a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy. Try it out and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!