Raisin loaf cake is an exquisite dessert that combines the moist richness of cake with the natural sweetness of raisins. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether as a simple dinner party dessert or a sweet treat for afternoon tea. The delightful medley of flavors and textures makes raisin loaf cake an irresistible choice for both casual and formal gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This raisin loaf cake is not just incredibly delicious but also simple to make. It features ingredients that are often already present in your kitchen. The buttery, moist texture and the sweet pop of raisins create a harmonious combination that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it serves wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Pro Tips for Making Raisin Loaf Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a better rise and texture.
- Flour Your Raisins: Coat the raisins in flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.
- Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. It should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to prevent it from breaking.
- Store Properly: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your raisin loaf cake:
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 200g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 120ml milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 225g raisins
- 1 tbsp flour for coating raisins
Instructions
Making raisin loaf cake is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepare a loaf pan by greasing and lining it with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
- Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 6: Add the dry ingredients to the batter alternately with the milk, mixing just until combined.
- Step 7: Toss the raisins in 1 tablespoon of flour to coat, and then gently fold them into the batter.
- Step 8: Pour the prepared mixture into the greased and lined loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 10: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
FAQs
1. Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, currants, or chopped dried apricots for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour.
3. How do I store leftover cake?
Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze it for up to three months.
4. Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans complement the flavors of the cake well. Just be sure to adjust the flour amount slightly if you add a large quantity of nuts.
5. How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?
You could add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even incorporate citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion
Baking a raisin loaf cake is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that yields a delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. With its enriching ingredients, delightful texture, and simplicity, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and savor the delightful flavors of homemade goodness!