Have you ever desired the comforting embrace of a buttery, nutty cake fresh from the oven? If you're nodding in agreement, the Butternut Sheet Cake is your next baking project! This recipe brings together the rich, sweet flavors of butternuts with the irresistible charm of a simple, homemade cake. Let's dive into the details of how you can create this culinary delight at home.
Ingredients
Before we start, here’s a look at what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup ground butternuts
- 1/2 cup whole butternuts for topping
Preparation Steps
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
<li><strong>Cream Butter and Sugar:</strong> In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy. This can take about 3 minutes with an electric mixer.</li>
<li><strong>Incorporate Eggs:</strong> Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.</li>
<li><strong>Sift Dry Ingredients:</strong> In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.</li>
<li><strong>Combine Wet and Dry:</strong> Alternately mix the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to keep your cake light.</li>
<li><strong>Add Vanilla and Nuts:</strong> Stir in the vanilla extract and ground butternuts, mixing just until they're well distributed throughout the batter.</li>
<li><strong>Pour into Pan:</strong> Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or back of a spoon. Sprinkle with whole butternuts.</li>
<li><strong>Bake:</strong> Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.</li>
<li><strong>Cool:</strong> Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.</li>
🍰 Note: Cooling the cake completely ensures it cuts cleanly and reduces the risk of it falling apart when you slice it.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooled, you can serve the Butternut Sheet Cake in several delightful ways:
- As is, dusted with powdered sugar for a simple elegance.
- With a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added richness.
- Drizzled with a simple icing glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or cream.
Storage and Tips
Here are some tips on how to store your cake and ensure it remains fresh:
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze the cake. If freezing, wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheat: Warm slices gently in the microwave if serving from cold or room temperature.
🌿 Note: Always let refrigerated cake come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
This Butternut Sheet Cake is more than just a dessert; it's a journey into the heart of home baking. With its rich, nutty flavor and buttery texture, it's perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just a comforting treat with a cup of tea. The ease of preparation combined with the indulgent taste makes it a must-try for any home baker. Remember, baking is about experimenting, so don't be afraid to play with the ingredients or presentation, ensuring every slice brings joy.
What are Butternuts?
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Butternuts are a type of nut related to walnuts but with a richer, sweeter taste. They are typically used in baking due to their unique flavor profile.
Can I substitute Butternuts with another nut?
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Yes, you can substitute butternuts with walnuts or pecans, although the flavor will be slightly different. Ensure you use the same quantity.
How do I grind butternuts for the cake?
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Use a food processor to pulse the butternuts until finely ground. Alternatively, you can grind them by hand with a mortar and pestle, but ensure they are not too oily or paste-like.
