Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Small saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
4. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture alternately with the buttermilk and vanilla extract, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
5. In a small saucepan, combine the dates, brown sugar, and melted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is thick and bubbly.
6. Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Top with the date mixture. Spread the remaining batter over the date mixture.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F
Serving Size: 8-10 servings
Nutritional Information: TBD
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the all-purpose flour, you can substitute gluten-free flour.
- For the butter, you can substitute vegan butter or coconut oil.
- For the buttermilk, you can substitute almond milk or soy milk.
Variations:
- You can add different types of dried fruit to the date filling, such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots.
- You can add spices to the date filling, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice.
- You can add nuts to the date filling, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to grease and flour the cake pan before adding the batter.
- Make sure to cook the date filling until it is thick and bubbly.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the suncake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a fresh fruit salad or a green salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cake is not done after 30 minutes, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature.
Food History:
Suncakes are a traditional Chinese pastry that are often served during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Flavor Profiles:
This suncake has a sweet and buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla and a chewy date filling.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an afternoon snack or as a dessert after a meal.
Related Categories
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Caramel, Chewy, Caramel-Like