Are you looking for a unique and delicious dessert that's both easy to make and steeped in history? Then look no further than the Appalachian Stack Cake! This iconic dessert, a testament to resourceful Appalachian cooking, is a simple yet satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. Forget fussy pastries; this recipe uses pantry staples to create layers of moist, spiced cake, all held together by a sweet, buttery frosting. It's a comforting classic, perfect for a cozy evening or a special gathering. Let's dive into this delightful journey of homemade cooking and create a truly unforgettable stack cake!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields a beautiful 9-layer cake. Adjust as needed for a smaller or larger batch.
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Making the Cake:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This ensures your cakes release easily.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Thorough mixing prevents lumps in your batter.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
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Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
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Coffee Infusion: Stir in the cooled coffee. The coffee adds wonderful moisture and depth of flavor.
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Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Frosting:
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Cream the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a smooth frosting.
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Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined.
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Milk & Vanilla: Add the milk and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Assembling the Stack Cake:
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Level Cakes (Optional): If your cakes have domed tops, use a serrated knife to carefully level them. This creates even layers.
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Layer & Frost: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining cake layers and frosting, ending with a layer of frosting on top.
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Chill (Optional): For easier slicing, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the cake firm up.
Tips for the Best Appalachian Stack Cake:
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Coffee Variation: Experiment with different types of coffee for a unique flavor profile. A strong, dark roast works particularly well.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the spices to your liking. A dash of cardamom or ginger adds a nice warmth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: Approximately 15-20g Sugar: Approximately 40-50g
This recipe is a delicious example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, transforming simple ingredients into a truly special treat. Enjoy your homemade Appalachian Stack Cake – a taste of history and deliciousness in every bite!