Amish Blueberry Cake
Amish Blueberry Cake Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make
Introduction
The Amish Blueberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the simplicity of Amish baking with the sweet and tangy flavor of blueberries. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from a family gathering to a quiet afternoon tea. Its moist, tender crumb and crispy, cinnamon-infused topping make it a favorite among both children and adults. This recipe is a testament to the Amish tradition of using fresh, wholesome ingredients to create hearty, delicious meals and desserts.
History
The Amish Blueberry Cake has its roots in the Amish communities of the United States, known for their simple, yet rich culinary traditions. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each adding their own touch to it. Originally, the cake would have been baked in wood-fired ovens, giving it a distinct flavor. Over time, as ovens modernized, the recipe was adapted but the essence of the cake remained the same. It embodies the Amish values of family, community, and simplicity.
Ingredients
- 0.75 cup sugar
- 0.25 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 0.5 cup milk
- 2 cup flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 cup blueberries, well drained
How to prepare
- Crumble the topping over the cake batter.
- Cream together the sugar, oil, and egg until it becomes a lemon-colored mixture.
- Stir in the milk.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt, and then stir them in.
- Gently fold in the blueberries.
- Spread the batter into a square pan that has been greased and floured.
- Sprinkle the topping over the batter.
- Bake for 45 – 50 minutes at 375°F (191°C).
Variations
- Lemon Blueberry Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter to introduce a refreshing citrus note.
- Gluten-Free Amish Blueberry Cake: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Amish Blueberry Cake: Use almond milk instead of regular milk, a flax egg instead of a chicken egg, and vegan butter for the topping.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure your Amish Blueberry Cake turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:
- Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor. If using frozen, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent the color from bleeding.
- Gently fold the blueberries into the batter to keep them intact.
- For a lighter cake, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the cake tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Amish Blueberry Cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a healthier option, accompany it with a side of fresh berries or a light yogurt.
Cooking Techniques
For an even bake, rotate the cake pan halfway through the baking time. This ensures that all sides of the cake cook evenly, especially important in older ovens that may have hot spots.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have vegetable oil, you can use an equal amount of melted coconut oil or unsalted butter.
- In place of blueberries, raspberries or chopped strawberries make excellent substitutes.
Make Ahead Tips
The cake batter can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then proceed with baking as directed.
Presentation Ideas
For a rustic look, serve the cake directly from the pan. For a more elegant presentation, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Pairing Recommendations
A cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk makes the perfect beverage pairing for this cake. For a dessert wine, choose a Riesling or Moscato that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A serving of Amish Blueberry Cake contains approximately 330 calories. The calories are primarily derived from the carbohydrates and fats in the recipe.
Carbohydrates
A single serving of Amish Blueberry Cake contains approximately 58 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the flour and sugar used in the recipe. Blueberries also contribute a small amount of natural sugars and dietary fiber.
Fats
This cake contains about 14 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being vegetable oil and butter. These fats contribute to the cake's moistness and the topping's crumbly texture.
Proteins
Each serving of Amish Blueberry Cake provides around 4 grams of protein, coming mainly from the egg and milk in the recipe. While not high in protein, the cake does offer a small amount to contribute to daily intake.
Vitamins and minerals
Blueberries are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as manganese. These nutrients contribute to the overall nutritional value of the cake, offering antioxidant properties and supporting bone health.
Alergens
Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, milk, and wheat. Those with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.
Summary
Overall, Amish Blueberry Cake is a delicious treat that offers some nutritional benefits, particularly from the blueberries. However, it is also high in sugars and fats, making it best enjoyed in moderation.
Summary
The Amish Blueberry Cake is a timeless dessert that showcases the simplicity and richness of Amish baking. With its moist crumb, flavorful blueberries, and crispy topping, it's a versatile cake that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this cake is sure to become a cherished part of your baking repertoire.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Amish Blueberry Cake. It was a hot summer day, just like today, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in the heart of Amish country. We were sitting on her porch, sipping on iced tea and enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature all around us.
As Martha and I chatted, she suddenly got up and disappeared into her kitchen. I could hear the clinking of pans and the sound of her mixer whirring away. Curious, I followed her inside and found her pulling out a beautiful blueberry cake from the oven. The sweet aroma of fresh berries and vanilla filled the room, and my mouth watered at the sight of the perfectly golden cake.
Martha smiled as she saw my reaction and handed me a slice of the cake. I took a bite and was instantly transported to blueberry heaven. The cake was moist and tender, bursting with juicy blueberries in every bite. I knew I had to have the recipe.
Martha chuckled at my eagerness and told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations of Amish women in her family. She offered to teach me how to make it, and I eagerly accepted. As we baked together that afternoon, Martha shared stories of her ancestors and their love of simple, delicious recipes made with fresh, local ingredients.
I was mesmerized by Martha's tales and by the way she effortlessly measured out ingredients and mixed them together with such care and precision. She showed me how to fold in the blueberries gently, so they wouldn't burst and turn the batter purple. She explained the importance of using real butter and buttermilk for a rich, moist crumb.
As we waited for the cake to bake, Martha and I sat at her kitchen table, sipping on more iced tea and chatting about life, love, and the joy of sharing good food with friends and family. I felt a deep sense of connection to Martha and to the generations of women who had come before her, passing down recipes and traditions that brought people together in the simple act of breaking bread.
When the cake was finally done, Martha pulled it out of the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. The smell of warm blueberries and vanilla wafted through the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to dig in. Martha cut us each a generous slice, and we savored every bite, the sweet tang of the blueberries mingling with the buttery richness of the cake.
As I licked my fork clean, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured favorite in my own kitchen. I thanked Martha profusely for sharing it with me and promised to pass it on to my own grandchildren one day. She smiled and hugged me tightly, knowing that the bond we had forged that day would last a lifetime.
And so, from that moment on, Amish Blueberry Cake became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always thinking of Martha and the magical day we spent baking together. The recipe brought me closer to my roots, to the traditions of generations past, and to the simple joy of creating something delicious with my own two hands.
Now, as I sit here in my own kitchen, mixing together flour, sugar, and blueberries, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back to me. I can still hear Martha's laughter, still taste the sweetness of that first bite of Amish Blueberry Cake. And I know that as long as I keep baking this recipe, Martha will always be with me, a beloved friend and teacher whose legacy lives on in every moist, tender, blueberry-studded bite.
Categories
| Amish Desserts | Amish Recipes | Berry Desserts | Blueberry Recipes | Cake Recipes |