Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of heaven that's both rustic and elegant - that's exactly what Helen's Brown Sugar Cake promises! This mouthwatering dessert isn't just another cake; it's a nostalgic journey through rich, caramel-like flavors that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen. With its incredibly moist texture and deep, warm brown sugar notes, this cake is about to become your new obsession and the star of every gathering!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer. This should take about 3-4 minutes, ensuring the sugar is well incorporated and the mixture becomes pale and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully integrated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can result in a tough cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, you can dust with powdered sugar, frost with cream cheese frosting, or serve as is for a simple, rustic dessert.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep the cake tender and avoid a tough, dense result.
- Check Cake Doneness Carefully: Use the toothpick test, but remember a few moist crumbs are okay - they ensure a moist cake.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the cake cool completely before frosting or serving to maintain its delicate structure.
- Storage Tip: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance the cake with a cream cheese frosting, caramel drizzle, or simply dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
