Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Special Equipment Needed:
- Electric mixer
- 9-inch springform pan
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating until fully incorporated.
5. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in the dates and walnuts.
8. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 300
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: vegetable shortening or coconut oil
- Dates: raisins or dried cranberries
- Walnuts: pecans or almonds
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweeter version
- Substitute the dates and walnuts for 1/2 cup of shredded coconut
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy for a light and fluffy cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Drizzle with melted chocolate
- Top with fresh fruit
Garnishes:
- Chopped dates
- Chopped walnuts
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruit
Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
- Soup
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, try adding a little more butter or oil.
- If the cake is too wet, try adding a little more flour.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Do not leave the cake out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food History:
Leipziger Lerche is a traditional German cake that originated in the city of Leipzig. It is a light and fluffy cake made with dates and walnuts and is often served with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a light and fluffy texture with a sweet and nutty flavor. The dates and walnuts add a subtle sweetness and nuttiness to the cake.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert or snack
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream
Related Categories
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Region: German
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Savory, Caramelized