Deep Dive - Our State Dessert

16/07/2025 11 min

Listen "Deep Dive - Our State Dessert"

Episode Synopsis

Custard, fruit, and a flaky crust might sound simple—but in South Dakota, it tells a story. In this episode we take a deep dive into kuchen, the official state dessert, and the sweet legacy it carries from prairie kitchens to church basements and beyond.Brought over by German-Russian immigrants in the 1800s and made official in 2000, kuchen has become more than a recipe—it’s a connection to heritage, hospitality, and heartland tradition. From the small-town bake sales in Delmont to the bustling ovens at Freeman’s Schmeckfest, we’ll explore how this humble pastry fuels festivals, funds missions, and holds a permanent place at South Dakota’s table.You’ll also hear local stories, meet the bakers behind famous flavors like peach and prune, and learn why this dessert still brings people together—one warm slice at a time.