๐ฐ Amanda’s Molasses Cake ๐ฐ
Amanda’s Molasses Cake is a delightful dessert with a rich history and a warm, comforting flavor profile. This classic cake is perfect for autumn or anytime you’re in the mood for a cozy treat. Let’s dive into its history, components, preparation steps, and the time needed to make it.
๐ History:
The exact origins of Amanda’s Molasses Cake are a bit hazy, but molasses-based desserts have a long history in American and British baking. Molasses was a common sweetener in the 18th and 19th centuries, making it a staple in colonial and early American cooking. The cake likely evolved from traditional molasses-based recipes and has been passed down through generations, becoming a cherished family favorite.
๐ง Components:
To make Amanda’s Molasses Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup hot water
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
๐ฉโ๐ณ Preparation Steps:
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Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until fluffy.
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Add the molasses to the butter mixture and mix well.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the molasses mixture, alternating with the hot water. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
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Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a while before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
๐ Time Needed:
Preparing Amanda’s Molasses Cake takes around 20 minutes for preparation, plus an additional 45 minutes for baking. So, in total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish.
๐ฐ Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful piece of culinary history! Whether served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or as a sweet treat with your afternoon tea, Amanda’s Molasses Cake is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of nostalgia to your day. ๐๐ฐ๐
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Amanda’s Molasses Cake (per serving, assuming 12 servings):
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: Approximately 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 370mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 47g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 29g
- Protein: 3g
Health Information:
Amanda’s Molasses Cake is a delicious dessert, but like most cakes, it is a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. Here are some health considerations:
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Moderation: Due to its sugar and butter content, this cake is relatively high in calories and fats. It’s best enjoyed occasionally rather than as a daily indulgence.
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Sugar: The cake contains a significant amount of sugar, which can lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels if consumed in excess. People with diabetes should be cautious and monitor their portions.
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Fiber: The cake lacks significant dietary fiber, which means it may not provide a long-lasting feeling of fullness. Consider pairing it with foods high in fiber for a more balanced treat.
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Portion Control: Stick to a reasonable portion size to avoid excessive calorie intake. A small slice can satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
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Balance: Enjoy Amanda’s Molasses Cake as part of a balanced diet. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of low-fat yogurt to add nutrients and reduce the overall calorie load.
Remember, treats like this cake can be part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed mindfully and in moderation. Enjoy it as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily habit.