Economy Cake Recipe

History of Economy Cake:

The concept of economy cake dates back to the early 20th century when thrifty homemakers sought to create delicious desserts using affordable ingredients. During times of economic hardship, it became necessary to find ways to make treats that were both tasty and cost-effective. Thus, the economy cake was born.

This particular recipe for Economy Cake is a classic example of a simple yet scrumptious cake made from pantry staples. It delivers a delightful taste and texture without breaking the bank. By using common ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, this cake offers a budget-friendly alternative to more extravagant desserts.

Fun Facts about Economy Cake:

1. The idea behind economy cake was not only to save money but also to reduce waste. This recipe makes use of every part of the egg, highlighting the resourcefulness of the era.
2. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless variations. You can easily experiment with different flavors and spices to suit your taste preferences.
3. Despite its humble origins, Economy Cake has stood the test of time and remains a beloved choice for those seeking a delicious, yet affordable, homemade treat.

Recipe for Economy Cake:

Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 1 cup sweet milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 teaspoonfuls baking powder
- Flavoring or spices of your choice (e.g., vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg)

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to a quick oven temperature (around 375°F or 190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and the yolk of the egg until well combined.
3. Beat in the butter and gradually add the milk, ensuring that the mixture remains smooth and free from lumps.
4. Slowly stir in the flour, adding it in small quantities at a time, until fully incorporated into the mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the egg white until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cake batter.
6. Add your desired flavoring or spices to enhance the taste. For example, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg.
7. Pour the batter into greased cake pans or gem pans, filling them about two-thirds full.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting or serving.

Note: You can also use this recipe to make three layers for a layer cake. Simply divide the batter equally between three cake pans and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you enjoyed this Economy Cake recipe, you might also be interested in trying out other budget-friendly desserts that deliver great taste without breaking the bank. Here are a few similar recipe dishes worth exploring:

1. Depression-Era Crazy Cake: This cake, also known as Wacky Cake or War Cake, was popular during the Great Depression when ingredients such as eggs and milk were scarce. It utilizes vinegar and oil as substitutes for these ingredients, resulting in a moist and flavorful cake.

2. Poor Man's Cake: Originating from the Appalachian region of the United States, Poor Man's Cake is a spiced fruitcake made with affordable ingredients like raisins, molasses, and spices. It is a simple yet delicious dessert that has been cherished for generations.

3. Basic Sugar Cookies: Sugar cookies are a versatile and economical treat that can be enjoyed year-round. With just a few ingredients, including flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, you can create delightful cookies that can be customized with various toppings and flavors.

Remember, budget-friendly recipes like Economy Cake and its counterparts showcase the ingenuity of home cooks throughout history while allowing everyone to indulge in a bit of sweetness without straining their wallets.