In the world of baking, there’s something incredibly comforting about a well-made loaf cake.
Its simplicity, rich flavor, and moist texture make it a favorite treat for many. If you want to don the hat of a recipe expert and bake a delectable dessert that will leave your taste buds singing, you’re in the right place.
In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the process of making a mouthwatering Vanilla Loaf Cake that’s not only easy to prepare but also promises to satisfy your sweet cravings.
So, let’s get started!
What Is A Loaf Cake?
A loaf cake is a simple kind of pound cake. It’s a pound cake that is more like sheet cake in that it sits out of the pan and has no dome shape like a classic angel food cake.
A loaf cake is generally more dense and moist than an angel food, with plenty of lift when taken out of the pan.
How To Prepare Loaf Cake Recipe Vanilla?
Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
Cooking Time: 45 Minutes
Servings: 8
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the ingredients, make sure you have the following kitchen tools at hand:
- Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Rectangular Non-Stick Loaf Pan, 9 x 5-Inch
Ingredients:
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your Vanilla Loaf Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour your loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready for your cake batter.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set this dry mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes around 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
3-Piece Prepware Mixing Bowl Set
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Start and finish with the dry mixture.
Mix until everything is just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the Vanilla Loaf Cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
Transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 6 mg
- Sodium: 77 mg
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
What Is The Difference Between A Loaf Cake And Regular Cake?
A loaf cake is a large, thin cake usually made with flour and butter but can also be made with yeast. When you make a loaf cake, you create a large, flat layer of baked covered with dough.
A regular cake is similar to a loaf cake, except the ingredients are mixed to form a crumbly batter, which is then baked in an individual layers into the shape of the pan.
Is A Pound Cake The Same As A Loaf Cake?
No, a pound cake is not the same as a loaf cake. A pound cake has a denser texture and is made with more butter.
The pound cake uses two pounds of butter to create an even higher amount of fat than one pound of flour and one cup of sugar.
What Makes A Loaf Cake Moist?
Most of the ingredients used to make a loaf cake tend to make the cake dense, thus making it moist.
Adding milk, oil, or margarine will help to create a moist texture because these ingredients contain fat.
What Is The Correct Oven Setting For Loaf Cake?
When baking a loaf cake in a loaf pan, the proper oven setting is 350 degrees. When baking any cake in a 9 x 5-inch pan, the temperature should be 325 degrees.
How Do You Adjust Baking Time For Loaf Pans?
When cooking in a loaf pan, you can adjust the baking time by the thickness of your batter.
A thicker batter may need to be baked for longer to prevent an aquatic center, while a thinner batter will bake much more quickly.
How many batters Do You Put In A Loaf Pan?
The amount of batter you put in a loaf pan depends on the size of the pan you are using. If you’re using a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan, fill it half full with batter.
However, if you make two small loaves from the same recipe and use a smaller loaf pan, only fill it one-fourth to one-third full.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Certainly! You can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
How do I store leftover cake?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze slices of this cake for up to three months. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Can I use vanilla essence instead of pure vanilla extract?
While essence can be used, pure vanilla extract offers a richer and more authentic flavor.
Conclusion
A loaf cake is an excellent treat for any occasion, whether you are baking for family or friends. They’re simple to make and are lovely for taking along on trips.
Loaf cakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature or in the refrigerator for two weeks.
Baking a delicious Vanilla Loaf Cake doesn’t have to be complicated. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy a homemade treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Remember to get creative with your variations and savor the delightful flavors of this classic dessert.
Happy baking!
