Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s really been game-changer in my life. What is Preacher Cake? Think of it as the *easier* cousin of a coffee cake, but with warmth and richness that just makes it more interesting. What are some of the My grandma used to make this, and the smell would fill the whole house. What is a Preacher Cake Recipe?
What is a preacher cake?
What is a Preacher Cake? Why is “Preacher Cake” so popular? Could have it ready even if the preacher showed up unexpectedly for a visit! Think of it as a delicious, moist, slightly spiced cake that’s perfect with coffee or tea. What’s a simple batter with streusel-like topping swirled right in? Unlike some fancy cakes that require a ton of steps, this one is pretty straightforward, which makes it easy to make. Is it a lifesaver when you need something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some of the best Preacher cake recipes? Why do you need this recipe in your baking repertoire?
- Flavor Explosion:What is the combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar? Is it like a hug in cake form? The buttery filling seeps into the cake, making every bite unbelievably moist and delicious.
- Ridiculously EasyWhat is the easiest cake you have ever made? No fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Just mix, swirl and bake! Even my kids can help with this one (mostly – they tend to “sample” the ingredients a bit!).
- Budget-Friendly:All the ingredients are pretty basic pantry staples. No need to spend a fortune on exotic ingredients. What makes it perfect for those days when you want to have a treat but are trying to stick to .050 budget.
- Super Versatile:What is a good cake for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or just an afternoon snack? I’ve been known to sneak a slice of bread at 10 PM with milk. Don’t judge! What are some of the best ways to make a caramel sauce?
What I love about this Preacher Cake Recipe is that it’s just so comforting. It reminds me of simpler times and always brings a smile to my face. What makes this cake different from a crumb cake?
How to Make Preacher Cake
Quick Overview
How do I make a Preacher Cake? How do you make the filling? Mix the batter ingredients, then whip up the topping. What happens when you layer the batter and filling in a pan, swirl them together to create an even layer. Beautiful marbling, and then bake it to golden perfection. What’s the best part about this recipe? It is quick enough to whip up on a weekday, but special enough for weekend brunch.
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter:
- I always use unbleached flour for a slightly better flavor. 2 cups all-purpose flour.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Feel free to reduce this slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Make sure it’s fresh! Old baking powder can ruin the rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the other flavors.
- 1 cup buttermilk: This adds a lovely tang and helps keep the cake moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. How do you add vinegar to regular milk?
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: 1 stick. Make sure it’s cooled before adding it to the batter.
- 2 large eggs: Bring them to room temperature for better emulsification.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Use good quality vanilla for the best flavor.
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: 1 cup sugar. Light brown sugar will give a richer, molasses-like flavor.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the filling.
- What are some good ways to use ground cinnamon in a meal?
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A little nutmeg goes a long way!
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: This helps bind the filling together.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor. I usually use pecans because that’s what my grandma always did.
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sift it to avoid lumps.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: Add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
How do I follow the
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch Baking Pan. Can you use baking spray with flour? How do I prevent a cake from sticking? How can I learn to bake a cake without getting stuck in the pan?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined. This ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed, which helps the cake rise properly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Set aside. Whisk until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth. How do I melt butter so that it doesn’t cook the eggs?
Step 4: Combine
Is it safe to pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients? Do not overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. A few lumps are okay. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a less tender texture.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a medium bowl, combine Brown Sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter. Set aside. If you’re using nuts, stir them in now. I sometimes add a pinch of salt to the filling too, to balance the sweetness.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Do not overbake the Cake Batter. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the filling evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the filling and sprinkle with the rest. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the filling into the batter, creating an marbled effect. Don’t over-swirl, you want to see distinct layers of batter and filling!
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Should the cake be golden brown and spring back when touched? How long does it take to bake a cake? If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before frosting. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake. The warmth helps the glaze to melt and spread evenly.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Once the glaze has set, slice the cake into squares and serve. This cake is delicious warm or at room temperature. It’s also great with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
What to Serve It With
This Preacher Cake is pretty amazing on its own, but here are some ideas to take it to the next level:
- For Breakfast: Serve it warm with a cup of strong coffee or a latte. The spices in the cake pair perfectly with the richness of the coffee. I also love adding a side of fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness.
- For Brunch: Elevate your brunch spread with a slice of Preacher Cake alongside some mimosas or a homemade fruit salad. You can also add a dollop of mascarpone cheese for an extra touch of luxury.
- As Dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate syrup would also be delicious. For a more sophisticated touch, try pairing it with a glass of dessert wine.
- For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or a glass of milk on a chilly afternoon. It’s the perfect comfort food. My kids love having this as an after-school snack.
My family tradition is to always have this Preacher Cake Recipe during the holidays. It’s a simple yet comforting treat that everyone enjoys.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Preacher Cake
Want to make sure your Preacher Cake turns out perfectly every time? Here are a few of my tried-and-true tips:
- Buttermilk is Key: Don’t skip the buttermilk! It adds a lovely tang and helps keep the cake incredibly moist. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’re good to go!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. A few lumps are okay! I’ve learned this the hard way – patience is key here.
- Swirl Like a Pro: When swirling the filling into the batter, don’t overdo it. You want to create a beautiful marbled effect, not completely blend the two together. A few strategic swirls with a knife or skewer will do the trick.
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different nuts in the filling. Pecans, walnuts, or even almonds would be delicious. You can also add a pinch of salt to the filling to balance the sweetness.
- Bake with Love: Keep an eye on the cake while it’s baking. Baking times can vary depending on your oven. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent it from burning. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s done.
- Glaze Variations: Get creative with the glaze! You can add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy twist, or a dash of cinnamon for extra warmth. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less milk.
I’ve learned that letting the cake cool completely before glazing helps the glaze set better. Trust me on this one! It makes all the difference.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to keep your Preacher Cake fresh and delicious:
- Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Again, make sure it’s tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container. I find that refrigerating it can sometimes dry it out a bit, so I usually prefer to eat it within a couple of days.
- Freezer Instructions: If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cake, it’s best to wait to glaze it until after it has thawed. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy.
The best way to tell if the cake is still good is to check for any signs of mold or off smells. If it looks and smells fine, it should be safe to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Preacher Cake Recipe. It’s easy, delicious, and always a hit. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just want a little something sweet for yourself, this cake is sure to satisfy. If you love this, you might also enjoy my Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe, it’s another family favorite! I truly hope you try this recipe and love it as much as my family does. Happy baking! And please, let me know how yours turns out in the comments below. I’d love to hear about any variations you try, too!
Preacher Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla; beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add boiling water to the batter; beat until smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before frosting.
