Divine Moravian Sugar Cake: Heavenly Easter Breakfast Delight 🍰✨

Winklers Moravian Sugar Cake Recipe

Overview:

Winklers Moravian Sugar Cake, a delightful creation hailing from Winklers Bakery in Winston/Salem, North Carolina, is a cherished traditional treat often savored during Easter morning festivities but equally delightful year-round as a coffee cake companion. The secret ingredient? Instant potatoes! Yes, you read that right – these humble spuds lend not only a unique texture but also a subtle flavor that elevates this coffee cake to new heights.

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 packets active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 3/4 cup warm water (additional)
• 1/2 cup sugar (additional)
• 2 tablespoons non-fat powdered milk
• 2 tablespoons instant mashed potatoes (dry flakes)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup butter (additional)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   Sprinkle yeast and 1/2 teaspoon of sugar into 1/2 cup of warm water. Allow the mixture to rest until the yeast bubbles and the mixture becomes foamy.

2. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture with the additional 3/4 cup of warm water, 1/2 cup of sugar, powdered milk, instant mashed potatoes, salt, 1/2 cup of butter, eggs, and about 1 cup of flour. Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture until well combined.

3. Incorporate Flour:
   Gradually add the remaining flour, or as needed, until the dough reaches a bread-like consistency. The dough should be soft and pliable.

4. First Rise:
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Dot the dough with butter and allow it to rise until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.

5. Prepare the Pan:
   After the first rise, punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased shallow baking pan, approximately 17 x 12 inches in size. Let the dough rise for an additional 30 minutes.

6. Add Toppings:
   Sprinkle the risen dough with brown sugar and cinnamon, evenly distributing them over the surface. Note: The dough will be soft and delicate, more akin to cake batter than traditional bread dough. Avoid adding excess flour or overworking the dough.

7. Create Indentations:
   With playful creativity, use your fingers to gently press indentations into the dough, creating a beautiful pattern reminiscent of piano keys.

8. Final Rise:
   Pour the remaining 1/2 cup of melted butter over the dough, allowing it to seep into the indentations. Let the dough rise for another 30 minutes.

9. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once heated, bake the sugar cake for 12 to 15 minutes or until it turns a glorious golden brown hue.

10. Serve and Enjoy:
    Serve the Winklers Moravian Sugar Cake warm or at room temperature, allowing its irresistible aroma and heavenly flavors to captivate your senses with each delightful bite.

This cherished recipe from Winklers Bakery brings together tradition, innovation, and the comforting flavors of home to create a coffee cake experience that’s truly unforgettable. Whether enjoyed on special occasions or as a weekday indulgence, this Moravian Sugar Cake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked goodness fill your kitchen as you embark on a culinary journey to create this delectable masterpiece.