Butter Cake (With Variations)
๐ Prep Time: 30 minutes
๐ Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
๐ Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Description:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this classic Butter Cake, a European favorite with a touch of German tradition. This recipe yields a decadent treat that’s perfect for Christmas gatherings or a cozy weeknight dessert. With its golden crust and syrupy sweetness, it’s sure to become a beloved family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup butter (for topping)
- 1 cup sugar (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)
- 1/3 cup chopped almonds
Instructions:
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Activate the Yeast: Sprinkle the yeast over warm water in a small bowl. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy.
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Prepare the Dough: In a saucepan, heat the milk, sugar, salt, and 1/2 cup of butter until the sugar is dissolved and the butter is melted. Let it cool to lukewarm temperature.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour with lemon zest. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with the eggs. Stir until a smooth dough forms.
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Prepare the Pan: Butter a 9×13-inch baking pan and spread the dough evenly into it.
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Let it Rise: Place the pan in a warm spot and let the dough rise for about 45 minutes.
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Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, mix together the remaining butter, sugar, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the risen dough, then top with chopped almonds.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Bake the cake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and syrupy.
Variations:
-
Streuselkuchen: For a variation, omit the lemon rind from the butter and sprinkle a crumb topping made from 1 1/2 cups flour, 3/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup ground almonds, and 1 stick of butter over the batter before baking. Optionally, add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon to the topping mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
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Apfelbutterkuchen: This German specialty adds sliced peeled apples to the top of the dough before baking. Cover the apples with the same Butter Topping mixture, and feel free to include almonds as an optional addition.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 5265.4
- Fat: 235.6g
- Saturated Fat: 128.2g
- Cholesterol: 1148.2mg
- Sodium: 2945.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 706.5g
- Fiber: 22.5g
- Sugar: 304.6g
- Protein: 94.1g
Recipe Yield:
1 9×13 inch cake
Savor the rich flavors and comforting aroma of this Butter Cake, perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to enjoy it as a sweet treat during the holidays or as a delightful indulgence on a cozy evening, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
