Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease the springform pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and vanilla extract.
7. Using a pastry brush, spread a thin layer of the batter onto the bottom of the prepared pan.
8. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the batter is set.
9. Remove the pan from the oven and spread another thin layer of batter on top of the first layer.
10. Repeat this process, alternating between baking and adding layers of batter, until all the batter is used up.
11. Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing the sides of the pan and transferring the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Serving size:
This recipe makes one 9-inch cake, which can be sliced into 8-10 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 290
Total fat: 17g
Saturated fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 290mg
Total carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Total sugars: 16g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of shredded cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, provolone, or gouda.
- If you don't have cream cheese, you can substitute with ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese.
- You can use whole milk or buttermilk instead of regular milk.
Variations:
- Add chopped herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the batter for a savory twist.
- Top the cake with sliced tomatoes and fresh basil for a caprese-inspired version.
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the batter for a breakfast-inspired cake.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to spread each layer of batter thinly and evenly to ensure even baking and a uniform appearance.
- Use a pastry brush to spread the batter for more control and precision.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the cake, place it in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation.
- Top the cake with sliced fruit, such as strawberries or peaches, for a colorful and fresh look.
- Drizzle the cake with balsamic glaze or honey for added flavor.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil
- Sliced fruit
- Powdered sugar
- Balsamic glaze or honey
Pairings:
- Serve the cake with a side salad for a light lunch or dinner.
- Pair the cake with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mixed greens salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the batter is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- If the cake is browning too quickly, cover it with foil halfway through baking.
- If the cake is not cooked through, bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before starting to prepare the recipe.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
- Discard any leftovers that have been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food History:
Baumkuchen is a traditional German cake that is made by layering batter on a spit and rotating it over an open flame. The cake is known for its distinctive ring pattern and is often served at special occasions, such as weddings and birthdays.
Flavor Profiles:
- Sweet
- Savory
- Cheesy
- Buttery
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature.
- Slice the cake into wedges and serve on a platter or individual plates.
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Region: German