Thanksgiving Cake
Introduction
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and food. One of the best ways to celebrate this special holiday is with a delicious Thanksgiving Cake. This cake is perfect for the occasion, bringing everyone together around a beautiful dessert that tastes as good as it looks.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a Thanksgiving Cake is not just about dessert; it’s about creating memories. This cake is rich, moist, and frosted to perfection. It can serve as a centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table, and with its delightful flavor, it will surely impress your guests. Plus, baking this cake can be a fun activity to enjoy with your family, making your Thanksgiving even more special.
How to Make Thanksgiving Cake
Ingredients:
- 400 grams all-purpose flour
- 400 grams granulated sugar
- 200 grams unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs (approximately 200 grams)
- 16 grams baking powder
- 120 milliliters milk (approximately 120 grams)
- 10 grams vanilla extract
- 250 grams unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 500 grams powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 30 grams milk (for frosting)
- 5 grams vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Fondant or gum paste for flowers (approximately 200 grams)
- Food coloring as needed
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract and milk until the desired consistency is reached.
- Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with a thin layer of frosting (crumb coat). Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. Apply a final layer of frosting and decorate with fondant or gum paste flowers and any other desired decorations.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Cake
To serve the Thanksgiving Cake, slice it into pieces and place on dessert plates. You can dress the slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. This cake pairs beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate, making it a perfect ending to your Thanksgiving meal.
How to Store Thanksgiving Cake
You can store leftover Thanksgiving Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, place it in the refrigerator, where it can last for about a week. If you plan to keep it for more than a week, consider freezing it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last up to three months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Thanksgiving Cake
- Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for the best results.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake.
- Use a toothpick to check if the cakes are done; if it comes out clean, they are ready.
- Chill your frosting briefly if it is too soft to spread.
Variation
You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warmer flavor, perfect for fall. Consider using pumpkin puree in the batter for a pumpkin cake variant. You can also experiment with different frosting styles, such as cream cheese frosting, which gives the cake a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Keep the layers wrapped tightly before frosting them.What can I use instead of fondant for decoration?
You can use whipped cream, chocolate ganache, or fresh fruit for a simpler decoration.Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cake layers. Just wrap them well before freezing, and thaw when you are ready to ice and serve.