Dive into the comforting world of classic American baking with the Hot Milk Cake, a simple yet exceptionally moist and flavorful cake cherished in family kitchens across the United States. This cake gets its unique texture and taste from hot milk and melted butter, ingredients that infuse the batter with richness and a delicate softness that sets it apart from other cakes. Often passed down through generations, this recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of home-baked treats.
Why You’ll Love This
The Hot Milk Cake is a perfect example of traditional baking simplicity meeting exquisite flavor. Its moist crumb and subtle sweetness, enhanced with a hint of vanilla, make it a versatile cake that’s delightful on its own or dressed up with toppings. The use of hot milk in the batter not only ensures a moist texture but also imparts a special flavor that can’t be achieved with other methods. It’s an ideal cake for those who appreciate less sweetness but want to retain a rich, satisfying taste.
Perfect Occasion
Hot Milk Cake is ideally suited for family dinners, afternoon teas, or casual gatherings where comfort food is celebrated. It’s also perfect for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries where a classic, understated dessert is preferred. This cake serves as a wonderful canvas for various decorations and pairings, making it adaptable for any event.
Decoration Tips
While traditionally served with just a dusting of powdered sugar, Hot Milk Cake can be beautifully garnished to enhance its visual appeal and flavor. Fresh flowers from the garden make an elegant, natural decoration that adds a splash of color. For a richer experience, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of fruit sauce. Edible flowers or a light caramel drizzle also work wonderfully as toppings.
Ingredients:
- 250 ml milk
- 120 grams butter
- 4 eggs
- 200 grams sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 250 grams self-raising flour (or plain flour with 2 teaspoons baking powder and a pinch of salt, all well-sifted)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Milk Mixture:
- Heat the milk and butter in a saucepan until almost boiling. Keep the mixture warm.
- Mix the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until they are light and have tripled in volume, achieving the ‘ribbon stage’. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the flour mixture in two batches, alternating with the hot milk mixture, using a spatula and careful enveloping motions to maintain the airiness.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 22-23 cm cake pan (a tube pan works well, but any standard cake pan will do).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 170 degrees Celsius (338 degrees Fahrenheit) for 35-40 minutes, or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve:
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and optionally decorate with fresh garden flowers.
Enjoy baking and indulging in this Classic Hot Milk Cake, a delightful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion!
