Looking for a sweet treat that’s easy to make and absolutely addictive? Quarkbällchen, also known as fritters, are the answer! These fluffy, soft fritters are made with quark cheese, which gives them a unique texture and mild, creamy flavor. Coated in sugar and fried until golden brown, they’re a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.
Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own batch of Quarkbällchen, and enjoy the delicious results!
Ingredients for Quarkbällchen:
- 500 g all-purpose flour (Typ 405)
- 500 g quark (neutral cheese)
- 250 g refined white sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (Dr. Oetker)
- 1 packet of baking powder (Dr. Oetker)
- A pinch of salt
- Zest of 1 orange
- 4 medium eggs (size M, white)
For Frying:
- 500 ml canola oil (or vegetable oil)
- Deep frying pan (I recommend using Zepter for even heat)
- Cloth piping bag with a metal nozzle (1.5 cm width)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the quark, sugar, vanilla sugar, and salt in a bowl. Beat the mixture with a mixer until smooth. Once combined, add the orange zest and eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gradually add them to the wet mixture. Use a hand mixer with dough hooks to combine everything into a thick, smooth batter. Once the dough is ready, transfer it into a piping bag fitted with a metal nozzle.
3. Heat the Oil
In a deep frying pan, pour in the canola oil and heat it to the highest temperature. Then, reduce the heat to medium (around level 5 if your stovetop ranges from 1 to 9). The oil should be hot enough for frying but not smoking.
4. Fry the Quarkbällchen
Gently squeeze the dough out of the piping bag into the hot oil, cutting each piece with scissors to the desired size. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—Quarkbällchen will expand as they fry. Allow them to cook for about 5 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Occasionally turn them to ensure even frying.
5. Drain and Coat in Sugar
Once the fritters are golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. While the next batch is frying, roll the hot Quarkbällchen in sugar to coat them evenly.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Quarkbällchen warm, straight from the fryer, for the best flavor and texture. These fritters are perfect on their own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make a fun and festive treat for gatherings or as a sweet snack to share with friends and family.
Baking Tips:
- Oil Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the fritters will burn on the outside while staying raw on the inside. Make sure to maintain a consistent medium heat.
- Sugar Coating: If you prefer a more subtle sweetness, you can dust them with powdered sugar instead of rolling them in regular sugar.
- Storage: These fritters are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Final Thoughts:
Quarkbällchen are a fun and simple treat that brings a taste of tradition and indulgence to your kitchen. The combination of soft, fluffy dough, a crisp exterior, and a sweet sugar coating makes them irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as an afternoon snack, or sharing with loved ones, these fritters will quickly become a favorite.
Stay tuned for more easy-to-make dessert recipes and fried delicacies in future posts! I'll be sharing other creative, sweet, and savory treats to make your baking experience even more enjoyable. 🍩