Linda CainBefore diving into the world of Philadelphia German butter cake, let’s talk about what you can enjoy along with this delightful treat. Tea or coffee makes a perfect duo, enhancing that buttery richness. For a more indulgent experience, you might consider serving a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. The contrast between the warm cake and cold cream is a moment to savor.
You can also try pairing this cake with fresh berries. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries not only add a splash of color but also a burst of acidity that balances the sweetness of the cake. Fruit preserves, especially apricot or cherry, can complement the buttery goodness, creating a wonderful flavor experience.
Have you ever stumbled upon a recipe so comforting that it feels like a warm hug? The Philadelphia German butter cake is precisely that for me. The buttery, sweet aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, transporting me back to simpler times spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. If you crave nostalgia and flavor, this is the recipe you need.
This cake is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a picnic, birthday party, or just a Tuesday treat. The ingredients are simple yet allow for a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one slice!
The Ingredients: A Personal Touch
When it comes to baking, I believe the choice of ingredients makes all the difference. Let’s go through what makes this cake so special.
Egg: One large beaten egg provides binding and richness.
Milk: The milk, warmed to the perfect temperature, ensures that the yeast activates like a magic spell.
Honey: Just a tablespoon brings an underlying sweetness that you can’t quite put your finger on, elevating the cake.
Sugar: A classic addition, granulated sugar helps caramelize the cake’s top, offering a delightful texture.
Butter-Flavored Shortening or Butter: The choice is yours! Either option gives a fantastic buttery flavor.
Sea Salt: Enhances flavor. Trust me, it’s a baker’s secret weapon.
Vanilla Extract: It adds warmth and sweetness to each bite.
Cinnamon: A hint of cinnamon adds depth and a warm aroma.
Active Dry Yeast: This is the ingredient that brings the rise and fluffy texture to the cake.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your cake, providing structure.
Ingredients List
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed to 105-115°F
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening or 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 (1/4 ounce) packet active dry yeast
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
How to Make Philadelphia German Butter Cake
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
First things first, we need to wake up our active dry yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (105-115°F) with honey and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes. If it bubbles and foams, you’re good to go! This means the yeast is alive and ready to help your cake rise.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, sea salt, and cinnamon. This step ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the cake. No one likes a pocket of salt, right?
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the beaten egg, melted butter or shortening, and vanilla extract. Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, gently fold it into the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Combine It All
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a gentle touch is all you need to create that perfect texture.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and pour the batter into it. Cover it loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes. You’ll notice it puffing slightly, creating a light structure.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While the cake is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking environment once the cake is ready to go in.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Once the cake has had its rise, pop it into the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This will prevent it from sticking and ensure the best texture. Slice it warm, and enjoy with those delightful pairings!
Recipe Notes
Let me dive a bit deeper into why I choose each ingredient:
- Eggs are not just for binding; they provide moisture, helping create a tender crumb in the cake.
- Milk is a great hydrator. It adds flavor and reacts with the yeast, allowing the cake to rise.
- Honey contributes subtle flavor while being a natural sweetener. It generally gives baked goods a lovely brown color.
- Granulated Sugar interacts wonderfully with yeast, contributing to the rise and creating a slight caramelization on the surface.
- Butter or Shortening each has its unique benefits. Butter enhances flavor, while shortening provides moisture and tenderness.
- Sea Salt isn’t just for taste; it balances sweetness and highlights all the flavors in the cake.
- Vanilla Extract is essential for that classic flavor we all know and love.
- Cinnamon not only adds flavor but also aroma; it makes your kitchen smell heavenly!
- Active Dry Yeast is vital. Make sure yours is fresh to ensure the best rise.
- All-Purpose Flour gives the cake structure and works with the yeast to create that airy texture.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here’s where you can have some fun:
- Fruit Additions: Toss in some fresh or frozen berries for a fruity twist. Blueberries or raspberries can add a splash of color and flavor.
- Nutty Touch: Chopped nuts or almonds can provide a delightful crunch. Just fold them in gently before the second rise.
- Zesty Citrus: Grate a lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing zing. The citrus notes will work beautifully with the buttery base.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips to take it to another level. A chocolate butter cake? Yes, please!
- Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom in place of or along with cinnamon for an intriguing twist on flavor.
Philadelphia German Butter Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Small bowl
- Clean kitchen towel
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1/2 cup milk warmed to 105-115°F
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening or 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/4 ounce packet active dry yeast
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- First things first, we need to wake up our active dry yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (105-115°F) with honey and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes. If it bubbles and foams, you’re good to go! This means the yeast is alive and ready to help your cake rise.
- Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, sea salt, and cinnamon. This step ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the cake. No one likes a pocket of salt, right?
- In another bowl, combine the beaten egg, melted butter or shortening, and vanilla extract. Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, gently fold it into the wet ingredients.
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a gentle touch is all you need to create that perfect texture.
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and pour the batter into it. Cover it loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes. You’ll notice it puffing slightly, creating a light structure.
- While the cake is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking environment once the cake is ready to go in.
- Once the cake has had its rise, pop it into the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This will prevent it from sticking and ensure the best texture. Slice it warm, and enjoy with those delightful pairings!
Notes
- Eggs are not just for binding; they provide moisture, helping create a tender crumb in the cake.
- Milk is a great hydrator. It adds flavor and reacts with the yeast, allowing the cake to rise.
- Honey contributes subtle flavor while being a natural sweetener. It generally gives baked goods a lovely brown color.
- Granulated Sugar interacts wonderfully with yeast, contributing to the rise and creating a slight caramelization on the surface.
- Butter or Shortening each has its unique benefits. Butter enhances flavor, while shortening provides moisture and tenderness.
- Sea Salt isn’t just for taste; it balances sweetness and highlights all the flavors in the cake.
- Vanilla Extract is essential for that classic flavor we all know and love.
- Cinnamon not only adds flavor but also aroma; it makes your kitchen smell heavenly!
- Active Dry Yeast is vital. Make sure yours is fresh to ensure the best rise.
- All-Purpose Flour gives the cake structure and works with the yeast to create that airy texture.
Nutrition
FAQs About Philadelphia German Butter Cake
Conclusion
In gratitude for the simple pleasures, the Philadelphia German butter cake is a must-try. A blend of minimal effort and maximum taste, it becomes a family favorite in no time. Each slice is a reminder of the joy of baking—a tradition that brings us together. Whether it’s enjoyed during a Sunday brunch, as a snack with coffee, or served at a gathering, it has a way of making any moment feel special.
I hope you give this delightful recipe a try. Trust me; your taste buds will dance with happiness! Happy baking!
