Zwiebelkuchen Southwest German Onion Cake

Indulge in the hearty flavors of Southwest Germany with this authentic Zwiebelkuchen, a savory onion cake that’s the epitome of comfort food. This traditional dish combines a buttery, flaky crust with a rich filling of caramelized onions, smoky bacon, and a creamy custard flavored with nutmeg and optional caraway seeds for an earthy kick. Perfectly golden and bursting with sweetness from the slow-cooked onions, this rustic tart makes an ideal pairing with a crisp white wine or fizzy cider. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Zwiebelkuchen is a versatile dish that’s perfect for cozy gatherings, Oktoberfest celebrations, or a satisfying snack any time of year. With just 30 minutes of prep and straightforward ingredients, this recipe brings authentic German charm to your table with ease.

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 250 g All-purpose flour
• 125 g Unsalted butter (cold, diced)
• 1 tsp Salt (for crust)
• 2 tbsp Water (cold)
• 1 kg Yellow onions (thinly sliced)
• 150 g Smoked bacon (diced)
• 1 tbsp Butter (for frying)
• 200 g Sour cream
• 3 large Eggs
• 1 tsp Salt (for filling)
• 1 tsp Ground caraway seeds (optional)
• 0.5 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
• 0.5 tsp Nutmeg (freshly grated)

Directions

Step 1

Step 1: Begin by preparing the crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to crumble the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

Step 2

Step 2: Add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and gently mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3

Step 3: While the dough chills, preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) and begin preparing the filling. Heat the tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside.

Step 4

Step 4: In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them gently over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent (about 10-15 minutes). Do not let them brown. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.

Step 5

Step 5: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, eggs, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and ground caraway seeds (if using). Mix in the cooked onions and bacon until well combined.

Step 6

Step 6: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 28 cm (11-inch) tart or springform pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any overhanging edges.

Step 7

Step 7: Pour the onion mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 8

Step 8: Bake the Zwiebelkuchen in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.

Step 9

Step 9: Allow the Zwiebelkuchen to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, ideally with a glass of white wine or cider.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1934.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3768.1

Total Fat 235.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 126.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 1131.2mg	0%
Sodium 7655.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 303.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 25.2g	0%
Total Sugars 57.8g
Protein 119.4g	0%

Vitamin D 203.4IU	0%
Calcium 681.9mg	0%
Iron 18.1mg	0%
Potassium 2856.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.7%

Protein: 12.5%

Carbs: 31.8%