Simple cake like grandma used to make
Simple cake like grandma's – A classic recipe full of memories
Do you remember the moments spent in grandma's kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked cakes made your heart beat faster? This simple cake recipe, just like grandma's, will take you back to those magical moments, offering you a culinary experience full of flavor and nostalgia. It is a quick and easy recipe, perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family snack or a dessert for guests.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 100 g butter or RAMA margarine, at room temperature
- 120 g powdered sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 250 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (about 10 g)
- 2 teaspoons cocoa
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 1-2 tablespoons almond essence (to taste)
- A cup of mineral water, if needed
Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. The butter or margarine should be soft for easy mixing with the powdered sugar. The lemon zest will add a fresh and pleasant aroma, so choose an organic lemon if possible to avoid pesticides.
Step 2: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, cut the butter into cubes and add the powdered sugar. Use a mixer to blend the ingredients until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake texture.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. It is important that the eggs are fresh to achieve a tastier cake. After incorporating all the eggs, add the grated lemon zest and mix again.
Step 3: Combining the dry ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. This will help the cake rise evenly. Sifting the flour is a useful trick to avoid lumps. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, gently mixing with a spatula or using the mixer on low speed. If the batter is too thick, add a tablespoon of mineral water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 4: Dividing the batter
Divide the batter into two equal parts. In one part, add the two teaspoons of cocoa and mix well. The cocoa will provide an intense flavor and beautiful color to the cake. The other part of the batter will remain with the almond essence, which will add a delicate and sophisticated note.
Step 5: Preparing the baking pan
Preheat the oven to 185 degrees Celsius. In a loaf pan, place a sheet of parchment paper and grease it with a little oil to prevent sticking. This detail is essential for easily removing the cake after baking.
Step 6: Pouring the batter into the pan
Carefully pour the almond essence batter into the pan, leveling it out. Then, in the center, add the cocoa batter. This technique will create a marbled and attractive effect, turning your cake into a true work of art.
Step 7: Baking
Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 50-60 minutes. The cake is ready when, after testing with a toothpick, it comes out clean. If you notice that the top is browning too much, you can cover the pan with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Step 8: Cooling and serving
After the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully remove it to a wire rack to cool completely. This slow cooling will help retain moisture inside. When completely cool, slice it and serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a moment of indulgence.
Nutritional benefits
This simple cake is not only delicious but can also be a source of nutrients. The eggs provide essential proteins, and butter, in moderation, contributes to healthy fat intake. The lemon zest adds vitamin C, and cocoa is known for its antioxidant effects.
Possible variations
If you want to add a personal touch, you can experiment with various ingredients. Replace the almond essence with vanilla essence, and instead of cocoa, you can add nuts or dried fruits. You can also add chocolate chips for a decadent cake.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can use sunflower or olive oil, but the texture will be slightly different. The cake will be less creamy and less aromatic.
2. How long does the cake last?
The cake keeps well in a sealed container at room temperature for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for a longer period.
3. Can I add fresh fruit?
Yes, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the batter too wet. Dried or candied fruits are a better option.
4. What pairs best with this cake?
This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of green tea or a flavored latte. It is also delicious alongside vanilla ice cream or fruit jam.
For a personal touch, I recommend serving the cake with warm chocolate sauce or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking and enjoy the delicious result! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 100 g butter/margarine RAMA, 120 g powdered sugar, 3 eggs, 250 g flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 2 teaspoons cocoa, grated lemon zest, almond essence
