Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk mixture, and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
12 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 470
Total fat: 22g
Saturated fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 135mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrates: 63g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 39g
Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for a spiced flavor.
- Substitute some of the flour with cornmeal for a crunchier texture.
- Add 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped dried apricots to the batter for a fruity twist.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
- Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Let the cake cool completely before dusting it with powdered sugar.
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 a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cake on a cake stand or plate and dust it with powdered sugar. You can also add a few chopped walnuts on top for decoration.
Garnishes:
Chopped walnuts, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream can be used as garnishes.
Pairings:
Serve the cake with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Fresh fruit salad, yogurt, or ice cream can be served as side dishes.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, it may have been overbaked. Try reducing the baking time next time.
- If the cake is too dense, it may have been overmixed. Mix the batter until just combined next time.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before and after handling food. Store the cake in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food History:
Vasilopita is a traditional Greek cake that is usually served on New Year's Day. It is made with a coin or other small object hidden inside, and whoever finds it is said to have good luck for the coming year.
Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a sweet and nutty flavor, with a hint of honey.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the cake as a dessert or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
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Region: Greek