English Cake

Classic English Cake Recipe with Walnuts, Raisins, and Almonds | Easy-to-Follow Instructions

Region / culture: England, Romania | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

English Cake is a traditional dessert that is rich in flavor and texture. This cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. The combination of butter, nuts, raisins, and preserves creates a delicious and moist cake that is sure to impress your guests.

History

English Cake has been a popular dessert in England for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the 18th century and has since become a staple in English baking. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to the classic cake.

Ingredients

14 oz / 400 g butter
1 cup sour cream
6 eggs
1 tsp ammonia powder
7 oz / 200 g chopped walnuts
7 oz / 200 g golden raisins
4 oz / 100 g ground almonds
1 cup flour
0.5 cup chopped fruits from preserves
14 oz / 400 g confectioner's sugar
juice from 0.5 lemon
vanilla
shortening and flour for greasing and dusting the pan

How to prepare

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until well combined.
Add the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the sour cream and ammonia. Mix well after each addition.
Stir in the walnuts, almonds, raisins, fruits, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
Gradually add the flour and gently fold in the whipped egg whites.
Pour the batter into a bread pan that has been greased and dusted with flour.
Bake in a preheated oven at medium heat for 40 – 45 minutes.
To check if it's done, insert a wooden pick into the center and it should come out clean.
Allow the bread to cool completely before cutting into slices.

Variations

Add a splash of rum or brandy to the batter for a boozy twist.
Swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Use different types of preserves, such as apricot or raspberry, for a unique taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the recipe.

- Be sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy to ensure a tender cake.

- Fold in the whipped egg whites gently to avoid deflating the batter.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Serving Suggestions

English Cake is delicious on its own, but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy is key to a tender cake. Folding in the whipped egg whites gently will help the cake rise and maintain its light texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute. You can also use different types of nuts or dried fruits in place of the walnuts and raisins.

Make Ahead Tips

English Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve English Cake on a decorative cake stand or plate for a beautiful presentation. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

English Cake pairs well with a cup of English breakfast tea or a glass of sherry for a sophisticated dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover English Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of English Cake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of English Cake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of English Cake contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of English Cake contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

English Cake is a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and iron.

Alergens

English Cake contains nuts, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

English Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content.

Summary

English Cake is a classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and moist texture, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea and savor the delicious flavors of this traditional English treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was at my friend Margaret's house for tea. As we sat at her kitchen table sipping our Earl Grey, she brought out a beautiful cake that she had baked earlier that day. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the room, and I couldn't resist asking her for the recipe.

Margaret smiled and handed me a weathered old notebook. Inside, written in elegant script, was the recipe for English Cake. She explained that it had been passed down through her family for generations, and that she had learned to make it from her grandmother.

I was fascinated by the history behind the recipe, and Margaret graciously offered to teach me how to make it. We spent the afternoon baking together, measuring out flour and sugar, cracking eggs, and mixing in spices. As the cake baked in the oven, the scent wafted through the kitchen, filling me with a sense of nostalgia.

When the cake was finally done, we each took a slice and savored the warm, comforting flavors. It was a simple cake, but it was perfect in its simplicity. The moist crumb, the hint of spice, the subtle sweetness – it was a taste of home.

From that day on, English Cake became a staple in my baking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, for church potlucks, for friends in need of comfort. Each time I baked it, I thought of Margaret and her grandmother, and the love and tradition that had been passed down through the years.

Over time, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twist here and there. I swapped out the white sugar for brown sugar, added a handful of chopped nuts, drizzled a simple glaze over the top. The basic recipe remained the same, but each adaptation brought a new dimension of flavor.

As I continued to bake English Cake, I began to collect other recipes from friends, family, and neighbors. Each recipe had its own story, its own connection to the past. I learned to make French pastries from my neighbor Mrs. Dupont, Italian lasagna from my friend Maria, and Mexican tamales from a coworker.

I found that cooking was more than just following a set of instructions – it was a way to connect with others, to share stories and memories, to create something beautiful and delicious out of simple ingredients. Each recipe I learned became a part of me, a link to the past, a way to honor the traditions and cultures that had shaped me.

And so, as I sit here now, surrounded by my collection of recipes, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned from each one. The English Cake recipe may have been the first to captivate me, but it was just the beginning of a lifelong journey of discovery and connection through food.

As I take a bite of the cake I have just baked, I am transported back to that rainy afternoon at Margaret's kitchen table. The taste is warm and familiar, comforting and sweet. And as I savor each bite, I am reminded once again of the power of a simple recipe to bring joy and connection to those who share it.