Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups chopped walnuts
- 2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Knife
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 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 white sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Beat in the flour mixture alternately with the milk, mixing just until incorporated. Fold in the walnuts.
4. Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan.
5. In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the batter in the pan.
6. Spread the remaining batter over the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)
Serving Size: 9-inch round cake
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 545
Fat: 25.7g
Carbohydrates: 71.2g
Protein: 7.2g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: Can be substituted with margarine or vegetable oil.
- Milk: Can be substituted with almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk.
- Walnuts: Can be substituted with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate version.
- Add 1/2 cup of dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries.
- Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Be sure to mix the batter just until incorporated to avoid over-mixing.
- If the cake is browning too quickly, cover with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel sauce.
Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts
- Chocolate chips
- Sprinkles
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Ice cream
- Whipped cream
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a few tablespoons of milk to the batter.
- If the cake is too wet, add a few tablespoons of flour to the batter.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before baking.
- Do not leave the cake out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food History:
Sekacz cake is a traditional Polish cake that dates back to the 16th century. It is made with layers of walnut-studded batter and is usually served during special occasions.
Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a rich, nutty flavor with hints of vanilla and brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert after dinner.
- Cut into small slices and serve as a snack.
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
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Region: Polish