This hot milk cake is a classic recipe that results in a soft, moist, and flavorful dessert. Whether enjoyed with a simple cup of coffee or used as a base for more elaborate desserts, this cake is a true winner. The addition of hot milk gives the cake a unique, tender crumb, while the hint of vanilla enhances its comforting flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served plain or paired with whipped cream, fruit, or sauces for an elevated dessert experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is incredibly easy to make and always turns out perfectly soft and moist. The hot milk and butter give it a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist. The simple, classic flavor makes it a great base for various toppings or fillings, such as fruit coulis, whipped cream, or even ice cream. Its light and airy structure pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal afternoon treat or dessert. It’s also perfect for layering or frosting if you want to turn it into a more elaborate cake.
Perfect Occasion
This hot milk cake is perfect for any time you need a simple yet satisfying dessert. Serve it at family gatherings, brunches, or as an after-dinner dessert. It’s also a fantastic choice for picnics, potlucks, or whenever you want to bake something easy but impressive. Because of its neutral flavor, it works well as a base for more complex desserts, so feel free to get creative with toppings and add-ins like berries, syrups, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Decoration Tips
For a simple presentation, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar once it cools. If you want to take it up a notch, serve the cake with a homemade strawberry coulis or fresh whipped cream. You can also layer the cake with cream and berries for a more decadent dessert. For a playful touch, cut the cake into squares and top each piece with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit, making it perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.
Ingredients for Hot Milk Cake:
- 240g all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 50g unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 eggs
- 350g refined sugar
- 60g vegetable oil (canola or sunflower)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Grease a 20x30cm rectangular pan or a 22cm round cake pan with butter and flour. Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Heat the Milk:
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and set aside.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into a large bowl. Set aside.
- Beat the Eggs and Sugar:
- In a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together at high speed until the mixture is pale, tripled in volume, and fluffy (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the Oil:
- While continuing to beat, gradually add the vegetable oil in a thin stream, similar to how you would make mayonnaise.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
- Add the Hot Milk:
- With the mixer still on low, slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the batter. Mix until just combined. The batter will be thin.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. The cake will slightly deflate as it cools, which is normal.
- Serve it cut into squares, optionally accompanied by strawberry coulis, whipped cream, or fresh berries.
Enjoy this moist, fluffy hot milk cake—a comforting and versatile dessert perfect for any occasion!
