Sunday Bread Recipe
Ingredients and Equipment:
- Two 9-inch cake pans
- Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Preparation Steps:
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Preheat and Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Line the bottom of two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper. Lightly flour the pans and tap out any excess flour.
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Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting these ingredients helps combine them thoroughly and aerates the flour, leading to a finer cake texture.
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Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the butter, which is essential for a light cake.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients and dairy ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating between them and beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can develop gluten and make the cake tough.
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Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool the Cakes:
- Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
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Finishing Touches:
- Once cooled, you can frost and glaze the cakes, or simply dust them with powdered sugar.
Tips for Soft Cakes:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially milk and eggs, are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to prevent gluten development, which can toughen the cake.
- Accurate Measuring: Measure ingredients carefully, particularly flour and sugar, to avoid a heavy cake.
This versatile cake can be customized with citrus zest, spices, or cocoa powder for a chocolate version. Enjoy experimenting and savor your delightful homemade creation!