Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in the apple butter, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 390mg
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 32g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- If you don't have apple butter, you can substitute with unsweetened applesauce.
- Regular milk can be used instead of buttermilk. Simply add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to make buttermilk.
Variations:
- Add 1 cup of chopped apples to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Top the cake with a cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
- Substitute the apple butter with pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired cake.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
- To prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, grease and flour it well.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the cake, place it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cake on a cake stand and dust with powdered sugar for a simple presentation.
Garnishes:
Top the cake with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
Pairings:
Serve the cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Pair the cake with a fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, it may have been overbaked. Next time, check the cake 5-10 minutes before the recommended baking time.
- If the cake is too moist, it may have been underbaked. Next time, add a few more minutes to the baking time.
Food Safety Advice:
- Always wash your hands before handling food.
- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other ingredients.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Apple butter has been a popular spread in the United States since colonial times. It is made by slow-cooking apples with sugar and spices until they are thick and spreadable.
Flavor Profiles:
This cake is warm and comforting, with the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves combined with the sweetness of apple butter.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the cake as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat.
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