Burnt Sugar Cake (betty Crocker: Circa 1956)

Burnt Sugar Cake

A delicious and decadent treat, Burnt Sugar Cake is a classic dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth. With its rich, caramelized flavor and moist texture, this cake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or special occasion.

The secret to this cake’s unique flavor lies in the burnt sugar syrup that is incorporated into both the cake batter and the frosting. The syrup is made by heating sugar until it reaches a deep amber color, which adds a deliciously sweet and slightly bitter taste to the cake.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup burnt sugar syrup (see recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
5. Stir in the burnt sugar syrup until well combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once the cakes are completely cooled, you can proceed with frosting them. The Maple Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect accompaniment to the rich flavors of the burnt sugar. It adds a tangy and creamy element that balances out the sweetness of the cake.

How to Prepare:

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, both softened.
2. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy.
3. Add 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1/4 cup of maple syrup. Beat until smooth and creamy.
4. Spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
5. Garnish with additional burnt sugar syrup drizzle, if desired.

Preparation Time:

This Burnt Sugar Cake recipe takes approximately 2 hours to prepare.

Servings:

This recipe yields about 12 servings.

Nutrition Facts:

Calories: 400

Total Fat: 15g

Saturated Fat: 9g

Cholesterol: 90mg

Sodium: 250mg

Total Carbohydrate: 62g

Protein: 5g

Tips:

• Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to avoid burning the sugar when making the burnt sugar syrup.
• For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter.
• To make the burnt sugar syrup, simply melt 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and slowly add 1/2 cup of boiling water, being careful as it may splatter. Stir until the syrup is smooth.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this cake in advance?

A: Yes, you can make this cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q: Can I freeze this cake?

A: Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I substitute the buttermilk with regular milk?

A: It is best to use buttermilk in this recipe as it adds a tangy flavor and helps tenderize the cake. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Q: Can I use a different type of frosting?

A: Yes, you can use a different type of frosting if desired. Cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or even a simple powdered sugar glaze would all work well with this cake.

Indulge in the exquisite taste of Burnt Sugar Cake today. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress. The combination of the caramelized flavors, moist cake layers, and creamy frosting create a dessert that is truly irresistible. Enjoy!