Classic German Donauwellen Recipe

Donauwellen, also known as Danube waves, is a popular German cake that combines layers of sponge cake, cherries, and chocolate buttercream. This delightful dessert gets its name from the marbled wave-like appearance created by the combination of vanilla and chocolate-flavored layers. Perfect for any occasion, Donauwellen is a treat loved by all ages. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, this classic German recipe will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• For the sponge cake:
• - 250g all-purpose flour
• - 250g unsalted butter, softened
• - 250g granulated sugar
• - 4 large eggs
• - 2 teaspoons baking powder
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• - 4 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• - 4 tablespoons milk
• For the cherry filling:
• - 500g canned cherries, drained
• - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• For the buttercream:
• - 200g unsalted butter, softened
• - 200g powdered sugar
• - 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• - 2 tablespoons milk
• For the chocolate glaze:
• - 150g dark chocolate, chopped
• - 50g unsalted butter

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a rectangular baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide the batter into two equal portions. To one portion, add the cocoa powder and milk, stirring until well combined.
6. Spread the vanilla batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Top with the cocoa batter, smoothing it with a spatula.
7. In a medium saucepan, combine the drained cherries, cornstarch, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
8. Carefully spoon the cherry filling over the cocoa batter, spreading it evenly.
9. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. Spread the buttercream over the cherry filling.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan.
12. Once the cake has cooled, melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a microwave or using a double boiler.
13. Pour the chocolate glaze over the cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
14. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving the Donauwellen cake. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts