Fruity Quark Casserole with Tangerines

Fruity Quark Casserole with Tangerines

There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a baked casserole that’s both fruity and creamy — and this Fruity Quark Casserole with Tangerines is exactly that.
Imagine layers of tangy quark cheese, sweet and juicy tangerines, and a light, airy batter that bakes into a golden delight. It’s not overly heavy, which makes it perfect for breakfast, a snack with coffee, or even a refreshing dessert.
If you’re after a recipe that feels homely yet elegant, this one’s for you.

Ingredients

• 500 g (2 cups) quark cheese

• 3 large eggs

• 120 g (½ cup) sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 80 g (¾ cup) semolina or cream of wheat

• 200 ml (¾ cup) milk

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Pinch of salt

• 3–4 fresh tangerines, peeled and segmented (or 1 cup canned mandarins, drained)

• 50 g (3 tbsp) butter, softened

• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (for dusting the baking dish)

• Powdered sugar, for dusting after baking (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter and lightly dust it with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking and add a bit of crunch.

2. Soak the Semolina
In a small bowl, combine semolina and milk. Let it soak for about 15 minutes until it swells and softens.

3. Mix the Quark Base
In a large bowl, whisk together quark cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.

4. Add the Eggs and Semolina
Beat the eggs and fold them into the quark mixture. Add the soaked semolina with baking powder and mix until fully combined. The batter should be thick but pourable.

5. Assemble the Casserole
Pour half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Add a layer of tangerine segments, then top with the remaining mixture. Add a few tangerine slices on top for decoration.

6. Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and firm in the middle.

7. Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if you like, and serve warm or chilled.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 220 kcal

• Protein: 10 g

• Carbohydrates: 26 g

• Fat: 9 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 14 g

• Calcium: 120 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole strikes the perfect balance between creamy, tangy, and sweet. It’s light enough not to feel heavy but still indulgent and comforting. The tangerines bring a refreshing citrus flavor, while the quark adds that classic tangy creaminess.
Serve it warm from the oven or chilled — either way, it’s pure comfort in every bite.

Origins and Inspiration

This recipe draws inspiration from Central and Eastern European cuisine, where quark is a staple. In Germany and Austria, baked casseroles like this are a traditional way to use up dairy and fruit. Tangerines give this classic a bright, modern twist, perfect for brunches or cozy desserts.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Quark Cheese: The star of the dish, giving a creamy and tangy base that’s lighter than cream cheese but richer than yogurt.

• Tangerines: Sweet and juicy, adding pops of citrus flavor.

• Semolina: Gives the casserole its light, fluffy texture.

• Lemon Zest: Enhances the citrus notes beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Enjoy it cold or reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 8–10 minutes.

• Avoid long microwaving to keep the texture soft.

• You can also freeze individual slices — wrap in cling film and foil, then reheat in the oven straight from frozen.

Common Variations

• Fruit Swaps: Try peaches, cherries, or berries instead of tangerines.

• Nut Topping: Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts on top for a bit of crunch.

• Richer Version: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace semolina with ground almonds or gluten-free flour.

Perfect Pairings

• Drinks: Enjoy with chamomile tea, fruity herbal tea, cappuccino, or latte.

• Brunch Combo: Serve with a fresh fruit salad and a drizzle of honey.

• Dessert Idea: Pair with sparkling Moscato or chilled orange juice.

Health Benefits

This casserole isn’t just tasty — it’s nutritious too.

• Quark is rich in protein and calcium, great for bones and muscles.

• Tangerines provide vitamin C for immunity and glowing skin.

• Semolina and eggs offer sustained energy, making this a wholesome breakfast or snack option.