Kaiserschmarrn is a traditional dessert that enjoys great popularity. It is a fluffy, shredded pancake that is dusted with powdered sugar and often served with applesauce, stewed plums or lingonberries. Here is a basic recipe for Kaiserschmarrn:
Recipe for Original South Tyrolean Kaiserschmarrn
Kaiserschmarrn is a traditional pastry that is very popular. It is a fluffy, torn pancake that is dusted with powdered sugar and often served with applesauce, cranberries, or plum compote.
Calories & Effort
- Calories per serving: approx. 450 kcal
- Preparation time: approx. 20 minutes
- Total time: approx. 30 minutes
Ingredients for 4 people
- 4 eggs
- 250 ml milk
- 140 g flour (sifted)
- 40 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 50 g raisins (optional, soaked in rum or hot water)
- Butter or clarified butter for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Applesauce or plum compote for serving
Preparation
1. Separate eggs
- Separate the eggs. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff and set aside.
2. Make the batter
- In a bowl, beat the egg yolks, milk, sugar, and vanilla sugar until frothy.
- Gradually add the sifted flour and stir everything together to form a smooth, lump-free batter.
3. Fold in the egg whites
- Gently fold the egg whites into the batter to achieve a fluffy consistency. If desired, add the drained raisins.
4. Fry
- Heat some butter or clarified butter in a large non-stick pan. Pour in the batter and fry over medium heat until the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip the batter using a plate or spatula.
5. Tear and finish baking
- Tear the batter in the pan into bite-sized pieces with two forks. If desired, add another piece of butter to the pan and bake the pieces golden brown on all sides.
6. Serve
- Serve the Kaiserschmarrn directly from the pan onto plates, generously dust with powdered sugar, and serve with applesauce or plum compote.
Pro Tips for Perfect Kaiserschmarrn
- Extra fluffiness: Add a splash of sparkling water to the batter to make it particularly airy.
- Flavor note: For a flavorful variant, add some lemon zest or a splash of rum to the batter.
- Perfect flipping: Use two spatulas or a plate to flip the batter without accidents.
- Oven option: For even rising, you can finish baking the batter in an ovenproof pan at 180 °C for about 5 minutes.
- Serving suggestion: Decorate the Kaiserschmarrn with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a dollop of whipped cream for a special presentation.
Why Love Kaiserschmarrn?
Kaiserschmarrn is not only a traditional South Tyrolean pastry but also a symbol of enjoyment and coziness. The combination of fluffy batter, tender raisins, and sweet powdered sugar makes it a highlight for any occasion. Whether as a dessert or main dish – this Kaiserschmarrn delights both young and old alike!
This recipe comes from the kitchen of Hotel Plunhof in Ridnaun and combines traditional South Tyrolean cuisine with perfect flavor.
Food Knowledge: Kaiserschmarrn
The Kaiserschmarrn is one of the most well-known pastries in the alpine region and a true classic of South Tyrolean cuisine. Originally, it was a simple "poor man's schmarrn" made from flour, eggs, and milk. Over time, the recipe evolved into a royal dish – according to legend, Emperor Franz Joseph I was a great lover of this pastry.
- Flour: A good wheat flour (Type 405) ensures a fluffy batter. Alternatively, spelt flour can be used for a nuttier note.
- Milk: Fresh whole milk gives the Kaiserschmarrn its typical creaminess.
- Eggs: Separating and beating the eggs makes the schmarrn particularly fluffy.
- Raisins: These sweet, slightly tart fruits are optional but add a special touch to the dish.
- Traditional South Tyrolean Desserts:
- Apricot Dumplings - Marillenknödel
- Traditional Apple Fritters - Apfelkiachl
Tradition: The History of Kaiserschmarrn
The origin of Kaiserschmarrn is closely linked to the Habsburg monarchy. According to tradition, the schmarrn was created by an imperial cook for Franz Joseph I. It was actually a makeshift solution as the cook wanted to save a failed pancake – however, the emperor loved the torn pastry, and it was named after him.
In South Tyrol, Kaiserschmarrn developed into a popular hut and home-cooked meal. Especially in alpine huts and mountain lodges, it is a classic that delights hikers and skiers alike.
Kaiserschmarrn: A Delight with History
This dish combines traditional values with timeless flavor and is a symbol of the warm South Tyrolean hospitality. Try it out and enjoy a piece of culinary history on your plate!
In this video, Manni takes you to an idyllic South Tyrolean hut and introduces you to the art of preparing an original South Tyrolean Kaiserschmarrn. With his lively and entertaining style, Manni shows step by step how to prepare this traditional treat. From selecting the ingredients to the finished dish, Manni's tips and tricks make the video a brilliant and educational experience for anyone who appreciates authentic South Tyrolean cuisine.
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