German Rote Grütze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rote Grütze is simple to prepare yet feels special. Using a combination of berries, sugar, and red fruit juice, the dessert is thickened with cornstarch for a smooth, pudding-like texture. It’s naturally fruity, lightly sweet, and pairs perfectly with cream, yogurt, or a scoop of ice cream. Plus, it’s versatile you can use any mix of berries you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4–5 cups [about 500g] berries (fresh or frozen, such as raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, or currants)
• 1/2 cup [100g] sugar
• 1 cup [250ml] red fruit juice (like cherry, raspberry, or cranberry)
• 1/3 cup [45g] cornstarch
• 1/2 cup [113ml] cold heavy cream

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the berries, sugar, and red fruit juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries soften and release their juices (about 5–7 minutes).
2. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold juice or water to form a smooth slurry.
3. Slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the warm berry mixture. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer to serving bowls or a large dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours before serving.
6. Serve with cold heavy cream poured over the top, or accompany with vanilla sauce or ice cream.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. Prep and cooking time is about 15 minutes, with additional chilling time of 1–2 hours. Total time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

Variations

• Use a single type of berry or a combination depending on taste and availability.
• Add a splash of liqueur such as Kirsch or Chambord for a boozy twist.
• Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.
• Sweeten with honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Rote Grütze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best served chilled, but can be lightly warmed if desired.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, frozen berries work perfectly. No need to thaw just add them directly to the saucepan.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, serve with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Make the Rote Grütze and chill it in advance. Add cream or sauce just before serving.

Can I use other thickeners instead of cornstarch?

Yes, arrowroot powder or potato starch can be used as a 1:1 substitute.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, small pieces of apples, pears, or stone fruits can be added, but adjust cooking time to soften them properly.

Conclusion

German Rote Grütze is a light, refreshing, and colorful dessert that celebrates the natural sweetness and tartness of red berries. With its smooth texture, vibrant flavor, and simple preparation, it’s a versatile dessert perfect for summer gatherings, festive meals, or a treat any day of the year. Serve chilled with cream, vanilla sauce, or ice cream for a classic German finish.

German Rote Grütze

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German Rote Grütze is a traditional, vibrant dessert made from red berries and a silky, sweetened fruit sauce. Served with cream, vanilla sauce, or ice cream, it’s refreshing, lightly sweet, and perfect for summer or festive occasions.

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings

Ingredients

4–5 cups (about 500g) berries, fresh or frozen (raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, or currants)

1/2 cup (100g) sugar

1 cup (250ml) red fruit juice (cherry, raspberry, or cranberry)

1/3 cup (45g) cornstarch

1/2 cup (113ml) cold heavy cream

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and red fruit juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries soften and release their juices (5–7 minutes).
2. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold juice or water to form a smooth slurry.
3. Slowly whisk cornstarch mixture into the warm berry mixture. Continue cooking 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer to serving bowls or a large dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours before serving.
6. Serve with cold heavy cream, or accompany with vanilla sauce or ice cream.

Notes

Use a single type of berry or a combination depending on taste and availability.

Add a splash of liqueur like Kirsch or Chambord for a boozy twist.

Stir in vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.

Sweeten with honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different profile.

Serve warm with whipped cream for a comforting variation.

• Author: Madelynn
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop, chilled
• Cuisine: German
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg