Traditional Lithuanian Šakotukas Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup of butter, melted
  • 4 cups of milk
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.
  3. Add the flour to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
  4. Pour in the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  5. Grease a baking dish with a little bit of butter or cooking spray.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
  8. Remove the Šakotukas from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  9. Dust the top of the Šakotukas with powdered sugar before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of flour, such as whole wheat flour or almond flour, for a gluten-free or healthier alternative.
  • Swap the lemon zest for orange zest to add a different citrus flavor.
  • Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
  • Try adding 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for extra texture.
  • For a chocolatey version, mix in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the batter and reduce the amount of flour by 1/4 cup.
  • Instead of using a baking dish, pour the batter into a greased Bundt pan for an elegant shape.
  • For a savory option, omit the sugar and lemon zest and add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, herbs, and spices to the batter.
  • Experiment with different extracts or flavorings, such as almond extract or rum essence, to customize the taste.
  • Top the baked Šakotukas with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a dusting of cinnamon for added decadence.

Recipe overview

Šakotukas is a beloved Lithuanian dessert that is sure to bring a delightful twist to your baking routine. This simple, yet delicious sweet treat boasts a custard-like texture beneath a perfectly golden crust. The cake is subtly flavored with vanilla and lemon zest, giving it a unique and refreshing flavor profile. This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare and requires basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. In less than an hour and a half, you can enjoy this traditional Lithuanian treat, perfect for any occasion. Šakotukas is a true crowd pleaser, guaranteed to impress your family and friends with its delicate taste and inviting aroma.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can use a different type of flour such as cake flour or self-rising flour, but it may slightly affect the texture and taste of the Šakotukas.
  2. Can I substitute the lemon zest? Certainly! If you're not a fan of lemon flavor, you can omit the zest or replace it with orange zest for a different citrus twist.
  3. Can I use a different flavor extract? Absolutely! While vanilla extract is commonly used, you can experiment with other extracts like almond, rum, or even coconut to add a unique flavor to your Šakotukas.
  4. Can I reduce the amount of sugar? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. However, keep in mind that it might affect the sweetness and structure of the final result.
  5. How do I know if the Šakotukas is fully cooked? The Šakotukas is fully cooked when the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can also insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it is done.
  6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. However, the texture and taste may differ from the traditional Šakotukas.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients together.
  • Whisk - Used to whisk the eggs and sugar together until well combined.
  • Baking Dish - A dish used to bake the Šakotukas in the oven.
  • Butter or Cooking Spray - Used to grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.
  • Powdered Sugar Shaker - Used to dust the top of the Šakotukas with powdered sugar before serving.

Origin stories

Šakotukas is a beloved dessert hailing from Lithuania, a Northern European country known for its rich culinary heritage. It's often called a "lazy woman's cake" due to its simplicity and ease of preparation. Despite the humorous nickname, this dessert has graced the tables of both royal feasts and humble family dinners throughout Lithuanian history. Its name, which roughly translates to "shaken" or "thrown together," reflects the nature of its preparation. The ingredients are mixed together in one bowl, poured into a baking dish, and baked until it forms a creamy custard on the bottom and a fluffy cake on top. It's a dessert that embodies the practicality and resourcefulness of Lithuanian cuisine, making the most out of simple, readily available ingredients.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.