Seedcake (The Hobbit)
Seedcake Recipe from Middle Earth: A Hobbit's Delight
Introduction
Seedcake is a traditional English dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe for Seedcake is inspired by the one found in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit," where it is described as a favorite treat of the hobbits. This rich and flavorful cake is perfect for serving at tea time or as a special dessert for any occasion.
History
Seedcake has been a popular dessert in England since the 18th century. It was traditionally made with caraway seeds, but this recipe uses poppy seeds for a slightly different flavor profile. Seedcake was often served at tea time or as a special treat for holidays and celebrations.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Add the spices and seeds, followed by the eggs and brandy. Beat the mixture until well combined. Gradually add the flour, stirring until all the ingredients are fully mixed together. Pour the thick batter into a baking tin lined with buttered paper. Bake the batter at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour.
Variations
- Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- Substitute the poppy seeds with caraway seeds for a more traditional flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy to ensure a tender cake.
- Be sure to line the baking tin with buttered paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Seedcake with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy is essential for a tender cake.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute the brandy with rum or whiskey for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Seedcake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Dust the top of the Seedcake with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve Seedcake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Seedcake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Seedcake contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Seedcake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Seedcake contains approximately 15 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Seedcake contains approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Seedcake is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin E.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter) and eggs.
Summary
Seedcake is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Seedcake is a delicious and traditional English dessert that is perfect for serving at tea time or as a special treat for any occasion. This recipe is inspired by the one found in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit," making it a fun and whimsical addition to any menu. Enjoy a slice of Seedcake with a cup of tea for a delightful and comforting treat.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a beautiful spring day, the sun was shining, and the smell of fresh flowers filled the air. I was rummaging through an old chest in the attic, looking for a book I had misplaced, when I stumbled upon a yellowed piece of parchment tucked away in a forgotten corner.
As I carefully unfolded the parchment, I saw that it was a handwritten recipe for Seedcake. The paper was worn and faded, the ink smudged in some places, but the words were still legible. My heart skipped a beat as I read through the instructions, my mouth watering at the thought of the sweet, nutty cake.
I had heard of Seedcake before, of course. It was a traditional recipe passed down through generations in the Shire, a small, peaceful land inhabited by hobbits. But I had never tried making it myself. The recipe called for flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and a generous amount of poppy seeds, all mixed together and baked to golden perfection.
I could almost taste the rich, buttery flavor of the cake, the slight crunch of the poppy seeds, the sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen. I could picture myself serving slices of Seedcake to my family and friends, watching their faces light up with delight as they took their first bite.
Excited and eager, I set to work gathering the ingredients and following the instructions carefully. I sifted the flour, creamed the butter and sugar, beat in the eggs one by one, and folded in the poppy seeds. The batter was thick and smooth, speckled with tiny black dots that promised a burst of flavor in every bite.
As I poured the batter into the greased pan and slid it into the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement. The kitchen was filled with the warm, comforting scent of baking cake, and I knew that soon I would be enjoying a slice of Seedcake, just like the hobbits in the Shire.
When the timer finally chimed, I pulled the cake out of the oven and set it on the counter to cool. The top was golden and crusty, the edges slightly browned, and the smell was intoxicating. I couldn't resist cutting a slice while it was still warm, the crumbs soft and tender under my knife.
I took a bite, savoring the buttery richness, the subtle sweetness, and the earthy crunch of the poppy seeds. It was everything I had imagined and more, a perfect balance of flavors and textures that made my taste buds sing with joy. I knew then that this Seedcake recipe would become a treasured favorite in my collection.
Over the years, I made Seedcake on special occasions, sharing it with loved ones and watching their faces light up with delight. Each time I baked the cake, I felt a connection to the hobbits of the Shire, a shared love of good food and simple pleasures that transcended time and distance.
And as I passed the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I knew that the tradition of Seedcake would live on, a delicious reminder of the joy and magic that can be found in a humble recipe passed down through generations.