"bucks County" Molasses Cakes (baked In Pastry) Recipe

History of Bucks County Molasses Cakes:

Bucks County Molasses Cakes have a rich history rooted in the traditional cuisine of Pennsylvania. These cakes were popularized in the 19th century and were often made by Pennsylvania Dutch settlers in the Bucks County region. The simplicity of the recipe and the use of local ingredients made it a staple in many households. This recipe captures the essence of those early days and brings a touch of nostalgia to the present.

Interesting Facts about Bucks County Molasses Cakes:

1. The use of molasses in this recipe adds a distinctive flavor and a deep, rich color to the cakes. Molasses was a common sweetener in the 19th century before the widespread availability of sugar.

2. The choice of using New Orleans molasses is intriguing as it suggests a connection between the Pennsylvania Dutch settlers and the broader culinary influences from Southern states.

3. The preference for certain brands of baking soda and saleratus, like Cow-brand soda and B.T. Babbitt's saleratus, showcases the trust the baker had in these specific products for achieving the desired results.

4. The use of pastry to line the pie-tins adds a delightful flaky crust to the cakes, enhancing their texture and overall appeal.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Bucks County Molasses Cakes (baked in pastry):

Ingredients:
- 1 cup of New Orleans molasses
- 3/4 cup of sweet milk
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- A little hot water
- 3 cups of flour
- Pastry for lining three medium-sized pie-tins

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to a moderately hot temperature.

2. In a bowl, combine the New Orleans molasses and sweet milk. Stir well to incorporate the two ingredients.

3. Dissolve the baking soda in a small amount of hot water. Make sure the baking soda is completely dissolved.

4. Add the dissolved baking soda to the molasses and milk mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

5. Gradually add the flour to the mixture. Stirring continuously, beat the mixture vigorously to create a smooth batter. The cake mixture should have a pourable consistency and not be overly thick.

6. Line three medium-sized pie-tins with pastry. Pour the cake batter evenly into each lined tin.

7. Place the pie-tins with the batter into the preheated oven. Bake the cakes for around 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before serving.

These Bucks County Molasses Cakes are perfect for a delicious and budget-friendly breakfast. They are simple to make, requiring no eggs or shortening. The combination of molasses and sweet milk creates a moist and flavorful cake, while the pastry crust adds a delightful touch. Enjoy them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a truly comforting and satisfying treat.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you enjoy the taste and history behind Bucks County Molasses Cakes, you might also appreciate these similar recipe dishes:

1. Shoofly Pie: Another classic Pennsylvania Dutch dessert, Shoofly Pie, also features molasses as its primary sweetener. This pie consists of a gooey molasses filling topped with a crumbly streusel mixture. It is often enjoyed as a breakfast or dessert option.

2. Apple Butter Cake: Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine is known for its creative use of apple butter. An apple butter cake combines the flavors of molasses and apple butter for a unique and delicious treat. This spiced cake is perfect for autumn or any time you desire a comforting homemade dessert.

3. Dutch Gingerbread: Dutch gingerbread, or "Ontbijtkoek," is a dense and flavorful cake made with spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Molasses is a key ingredient, bringing sweetness and depth of flavor. Dutch gingerbread is traditionally served sliced with butter as a breakfast option.

These dishes celebrate the culinary traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch settlers and are worth exploring for their cultural significance and delicious taste.