Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 250 g all-purpose flour
• 60 g granulated sugar
• 120 g unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces)
• A pinch of salt

For the Cream Filling:

• 500 g sour cream (20% fat)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 20 g vanilla sugar
• 50 g unsalted butter (softened)
• 120 g granulated sugar

Making It Step by Step

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pan, evenly covering the base.
   • Chill the crust in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
3. Prepare the Cream Filling:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
   • In a small saucepan, melt the 50 g of butter over low heat. Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the sour cream mixture, whisking until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Remove the chilled crust from the refrigerator.
   • Pour the sour cream filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake the Cake:
   • Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve:
   • Once the cake is completely cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar if desired, or serve it as is.

Cooking Tips

• Butter Consistency: Ensure that the butter for the crust is cold to achieve a crumbly texture.
• Chilling the Crust: Chilling the crust helps to prevent it from shrinking during baking.
• Smooth Filling: Whisk the filling thoroughly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
• Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to help it set properly.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate per serving, assuming 8 servings)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 180mg

FAQs

• Can I use low-fat sour cream? Low-fat sour cream can be used, but it may result in a slightly less rich flavor and texture.
• Can I add fruit to the filling? Yes, you can add fruit like berries or sliced apples to the filling for added flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar accordingly.
• Can I use a different type of flour? While all-purpose flour is recommended, you can experiment with other types of flour, but the texture of the crust may vary.

Conclusion

This creamy sour cream cake is a timeless dessert that offers a perfect balance of rich, buttery crust and a smooth, tangy filling. Its combination of creamy sour cream and vanilla sugar results in a deliciously velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, crisp crust. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a simple family gathering, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for those who might not have a lot of baking experience. The sour cream filling not only provides a delightful tang but also keeps the cake moist and tender. By following these steps, you ensure that each slice of the cake is both satisfying and flavorful.

Furthermore, this cake’s versatility means it can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different flavorings, such as adding fruit or nuts, to make it uniquely your own. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for both everyday enjoyment and special celebrations.