Hot Milk Butter Cake
The Hot Milk Butter Cake is a delightful treat that combines the richness of butter with the warmth of hot milk, resulting in a moist and tender cake perfect for any occasion. Once baked, dust it with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finishing touch, or serve it alongside cream and fresh berries for an indulgent dessert that’s bound to impress family and friends. Here, we will delve into everything you need to know to create this scrumptious cake, including ingredients, detailed steps, and tips for the perfect bake.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Hot Milk Butter Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It’s fantastic on its own, but you can also dress it up with whipped cream, fruits, or a glaze for special occasions. Its tender crumb and rich buttery flavor make it a favorite among cake lovers. The unique technique of scalding the milk and butter together means that the batter remains incredibly moist, and you are left with a cake that has a delightful texture. Whether enjoyed at afternoon tea or served as a dessert at dinner, this cake is bound to become a family favorite.
Pro Tips for Making Hot Milk Butter Cake
- Always use room temperature ingredients: Bringing the eggs and butter to room temperature ensures that they combine smoothly, creating a light and fluffy batter.
- Don’t skip the stirring: Gently mix the dry ingredients and avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
- Keep an eye on the baking time: Every oven is different, so check your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
- A toothpick test: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached when the cake is done.
- Storage: Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for your Hot Milk Butter Cake:
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) whole milk
- 60 g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
- 160 g (1 + 1/3 cup) all-purpose flour
- 4 g (1 tsp) baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 3 eggs, at room temperature
- 160 g (3/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated white sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla paste or vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan. This will ensure that your cake releases easily once baked.
Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine the whole milk and unsalted butter. Place it over medium heat and allow the mixture to come to a simmer, stirring frequently until the butter has melted completely. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step adds air to the flour, resulting in a lighter cake.
Step 4: In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is thick and pale. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Add in the vanilla paste or extract and combine.
Step 5: Gradually sift the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Slowly add the warmed milk and butter mixture to the batter, folding gently until everything is well incorporated. The batter may be thinner than typical cake batter, but that is expected.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth it out with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, gently turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: After the cake has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving. This step gives an attractive finish and adds a bit of sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it is best to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to enhance the cake’s flavor without making it overly salty.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Your cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. It should also be golden brown around the edges.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made ahead of time. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage.
What can I serve with Hot Milk Butter Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. It can also be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee.
Can I add flavors to the cake?
Yes! You can enhance the flavor by adding lemon or orange zest, almond extract, or even chocolate chips to the batter for a new twist.
Conclusion
The Hot Milk Butter Cake is a delightful combination of simple ingredients that come together to create a comforting dessert. Perfect for everyday occasions or special gatherings, this cake’s moist texture and rich flavor are sure to win over anyone who tries it. Follow the steps, and make your everyday moments sweeter with this reliable cake recipe!