Molasses Cakes Recipe
Molasses Cakes have been a beloved treat for generations, with a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. This delectable dessert is known for its deep flavors, moist texture, and a hint of citrusy goodness. Fun fact: Molasses Cakes were particularly popular during the Victorian era, often being served at tea parties and social gatherings.
To make these delightful Molasses Cakes, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons of shortening
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2/3 cup of milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cups of flour
- 3 teaspoons of Dr. Price's Baking Powder
- 1/8 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of orange extract
- Grated rind of 1 orange
Now, let's get started with the recipe:
1. Cream the shortening in a mixing bowl until it becomes smooth and creamy.
2. Slowly add the sugar to the shortening, beating well after each addition. This will ensure that the sugar is evenly distributed in the batter.
3. Gradually pour the milk into the mixture, adding a little at a time. Continue beating the mixture to incorporate all the milk.
4. Crack the egg into a separate bowl and beat it lightly. Then, add the beaten egg to the mixture and continue to beat until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to remove any lumps and ensures a smooth texture in the final cakes.
6. Add the sifted dry ingredients to the mixture, a little at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help create a light and fluffy batter.
7. Next, add the orange extract and the grated rind of 1 orange to the mixture. These citrusy elements will provide a refreshing flavor to the cakes.
8. Mix the batter well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
9. Preheat your oven to a hot temperature (around 400°F/200°C).
10. Grease a shallow tin or individual cake tins with a little bit of shortening to prevent the cakes from sticking. This also helps them bake evenly.
11. Pour the batter into the greased tin(s) until they are about three-quarters full. This allows room for the cakes to rise while baking.
12. Place the tin(s) into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The exact baking time may vary, so keep an eye on the cakes and remove them from the oven once they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
13. Once the cakes are done, transfer them to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before applying the orange icing.
Now that the Molasses Cakes have cooled down, it's time to make the orange icing! Here's a simple recipe for a luscious orange icing to complement your Molasses Cakes:
- 2 cups of powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon of grated orange zest
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, orange juice, and grated orange zest. Stir well until the icing reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency.
2. Carefully spread the orange icing over the cooled Molasses Cakes using a spatula, ensuring an even coating on the top and sides of each cake.
3. Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before serving. This will give it a chance to firm up and add a beautiful finishing touch to your Molasses Cakes.
Once you've completed these steps, you have a batch of homemade Molasses Cakes ready to be enjoyed! These cakes can be served as a delightful dessert or even as an afternoon snack with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Fun fact: Molasses Cakes have long been a staple in Southern cuisine, often enjoyed during the holiday season and family gatherings. The richness of molasses adds a distinct flavor and aroma to these cakes, making them a beloved treat across generations.
If you're looking for similar recipes, you might want to explore other classic cake options like gingerbread cake, honey cake, or even dark chocolate cake. These desserts share a similar warmth and richness, making them perfect choices for any occasion.
So go ahead, indulge in the sweet and comforting goodness of Molasses Cakes and immerse yourself in the flavors of tradition and history. Enjoy!
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