Nothing beats the aroma and taste of a freshly baked Cuca (Streuselkuchen) topped with a crunchy, irresistible streusel. This recipe is practical, quick, and perfect for a family afternoon coffee or to surprise unexpected guests. Without the need for an electric mixer or blender, this Cuca with Streusel is made simply by hand, resulting in a fluffy, flavorful dessert with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Want to know how to make this delicious treat? Check out the full recipe below and be amazed by its simplicity and flavor!
Ingredients for the Cuca with Streusel:
For the streusel:
- 2 generous tablespoons butter or margarine
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (add gradually)
For the cake batter:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 generous tablespoons butter or margarine
- 3 cups sifted all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
How to make Cuca with Streusel:
Streusel:
In a bowl, mix the butter, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the flour, mixing with your hands until it forms a crumbly mixture that holds its shape when pressed. Set aside.
Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease only the bottom of a medium baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, and butter with a wire whisk or wooden spoon until smooth and creamy.
- Add half of the flour and mix. Alternate with the warm milk mixed with apple cider vinegar. Continue mixing until well incorporated.
- Add the remaining flour and finish by folding in the baking powder gently.
- Pour the batter into the greased pan and smooth the surface. Top evenly with the reserved streusel.
- Bake for approximately 40 to 50 minutes. Perform the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the Cuca is ready.
Pro Tip:
To make your Cuca even tastier, you can add fruits like sliced bananas, apples, or raisins to the batter before adding the streusel. Another important tip is to grease only the bottom of the pan; this helps prevent the cake from collapsing after cooling. Serve warm with a fresh cup of coffee—a combination that will leave everyone craving seconds.
Prep time:
50 minutes
Yields:
10 servings
Fun Fact:
Cuca is a traditional recipe with roots in German cuisine, brought to Brazil by German immigrants. Known as “Streuselkuchen” in Germany, the Cuca became popular across various Brazilian regions, especially in the South, where it gained local twists. The word “Cuca” derives from the German term “Kuchen,” which means cake. The crunchy streusel topping is its signature mark. In Brazil, it’s common to find versions with banana, guava paste (goiabada), chocolate, or even savory fillings. Making a Cuca is more than just baking a cake—it’s reliving a history of immigration, culture, and adaptation that enriched Brazilian gastronomy.
Now that you know the recipe and its history, how about baking this delicious treat today? Remember: a Cuca made with love always tastes special!