Oma's Traditional German Sugar Cake (Zuckerkuchen)

Step 1

In a large bowl, mix yeast, water, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let stand for about 5 to 10 minutes. This should be foamy. (It will be if the yeast is not old.)

Step 2

Mix in 1 cup milk, oil, egg, and ½ cup sugar. Beat in 2 cups flour and mix well. Let stand 10 minutes.

Step 3

Add more flour until a soft dough results.

Step 4

Remove from bowl and knead until smooth and elastic, adding flour ONLY if necessary if it is too sticky.

Step 5

Put smooth dough into a greased bowl. Cover with a clean tea towel and put in a draft-free warm place for about 30–60 minutes, until doubled in size.

Step 6

Grease a 15x10-inch jelly-roll pan. Roll out dough to fit pan and place in pan.

Step 7

Make small hollows in the surface of the dough with your fingers.

Step 8

Brush dough with ½ cup milk or cream. Cut butter into small pieces and place in hollows. Sprinkle ⅔ cup sugar and nuts over dough.

Step 9

Cover and let stand in a warm draft-free place for about 30 minutes.

Step 10

Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 11

Let cool slightly and cut into 20 pieces.