Today, I would like to share with you a delightful recipe for Burnt Sugar Cake. This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your family and friends. The rich and caramel-like flavor of the burnt sugar lends a unique twist to this traditional cake. Let’s jump right into the recipe!
Burnt Sugar Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and add in the butter. Stir until it is fully melted and well combined with the burnt sugar.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the egg mixture, alternating with the milk.
- Once the batter is well mixed, slowly pour in the burnt sugar mixture, stirring until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Prepare:
This Burnt Sugar Cake is incredibly delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by adding a decadent frosting or glaze. Some popular options include cream cheese frosting, caramel buttercream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Feel free to get creative and personalize the cake to your liking!
Preparation Time:
From start to finish, this Burnt Sugar Cake recipe should take approximately 1 hour, including preparation and baking time. It’s a relatively quick and easy recipe that delivers outstanding results.
Servings:
This recipe yields one 9-inch round cake, which can typically serve around 8-10 people, depending on the size of the slices. If you are serving a larger crowd, you may want to consider doubling the recipe.
Nutrition Facts:
While this cake is undoubtedly a delicious treat, it is essential to be mindful of portion sizes and nutritional information. The exact nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used, as well as any additional toppings or frostings added. As a general guide, a slice of Burnt Sugar Cake (approximately 1/8 of the cake) provides around 300-400 calories, with varying amounts of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. Be sure to adjust these values accordingly based on your specific dietary needs and preferences.
Tips:
- To achieve that beautiful burnt sugar flavor, be patient when melting the sugar. Stir it constantly over medium heat until it reaches that rich amber color.
- For an extra touch of elegance, you can drizzle a homemade caramel sauce over the top of the cake or garnish it with caramelized sugar shards.
- If you don’t have a round cake pan, you can use a square or rectangular pan instead. Just adjust the baking time accordingly. The cake is done when it is golden brown and springs back when lightly pressed.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cake can be made up to a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature until you are ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze the Burnt Sugar Cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake either whole or in individual slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of sugar?
A: While this recipe calls for granulated sugar, you can experiment with other types of sugar, such as brown sugar or even palm sugar, for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that it may affect the overall texture and sweetness of the cake.
Q: What can I serve with this Burnt Sugar Cake?
A: This cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this Burnt Sugar Cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just make sure to check the ingredient list to ensure that all the components are gluten-free.
I hope this Burnt Sugar Cake recipe brings you as much joy as it does to me. It’s a timeless classic that is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy!
