The “After-School Snack Cake” is a delightful treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings after a long day of classes or work. It’s a relatively simple dessert that’s quick to prepare, making it a popular choice for busy individuals looking for a tasty pick-me-up.
History:
The exact origin of the After-School Snack Cake is a bit unclear, as it’s more of a modern, home-baked treat rather than a traditional, historically significant dessert. It likely emerged as a convenient and delicious way to enjoy cake without the need for complex ingredients or lengthy preparation times.
Components:
Here are the typical components of an After-School Snack Cake:
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Cake Batter: This usually consists of basic cake ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and baking powder. Some variations might include cocoa powder or other flavorings.
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Toppings: After baking, the cake is often topped with various ingredients to add flavor and texture. Common toppings include chocolate chips, nuts, shredded coconut, or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Steps to Prepare After-School Snack Cake:
Here’s a basic recipe for preparing an After-School Snack Cake:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Toppings of your choice (chocolate chips, nuts, etc.)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and spread it evenly.
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Sprinkle your choice of toppings over the batter.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this After-School Snack Cake is relatively short, approximately 10-15 minutes for mixing the batter and another 25-30 minutes for baking. So, in total, you can have this delicious snack cake ready in about 40-45 minutes from start to finish.
Enjoy your After-School Snack Cake as a delightful treat to celebrate the end of the day or as a sweet pick-me-up anytime you crave something delicious!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for a basic After-School Snack Cake. Keep in mind that specific values can vary depending on the recipe and ingredients used:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on a typical recipe):
- Calories: 200-250 calories per serving (serving size varies)
- Total Fat: 8-10 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 20-30 milligrams
- Sodium: 150-200 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 18-22 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
Health Information:
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Moderation: While After-School Snack Cake is a delicious treat, it should be enjoyed in moderation due to its relatively high sugar and fat content.
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Portion Control: Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid excessive calorie intake. Smaller slices are recommended for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Sugar Content: The cake often contains a significant amount of sugar, which can lead to a quick energy boost followed by a crash. It’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack.
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Fat: The fat content mainly comes from ingredients like vegetable oil, which provides energy. However, excessive consumption of saturated fats should be avoided for a heart-healthy diet.
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Protein and Fiber: While After-School Snack Cake doesn’t provide much protein or fiber, you can balance your snack by enjoying it with a glass of milk or a serving of fruit for added nutrients.
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Nutrient Variations: The nutrition facts can vary based on recipe variations. Using whole wheat flour or adding ingredients like nuts can increase fiber and protein content.
Remember that the healthiness of your After-School Snack Cake largely depends on the ingredients you choose and the portion sizes you consume. It’s a delightful treat to enjoy occasionally, but for those with specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, modifications can be made to create a healthier version of this snack cake.
