Boterkoek, which literally translates to “butter cake” in Dutch, is a traditional Dutch pastry that’s as simple as its name suggests. This dense, buttery, and slightly crumbly cake is a beloved treat in the Netherlands, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Making boterkoek at home is surprisingly easy, even if you’re a baking novice. This recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a perfectly golden-brown and delicious boterkoek.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for added flavor)
Tools of the Trade
- 9-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Let’s Bake Some Boterkoek!
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Prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides for easy removal later.
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Cream together butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
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Incorporate the egg and extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
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Gradually add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
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Transfer batter to the pan: Transfer the batter to your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
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Score the top: Using a sharp knife, lightly score a criss-cross pattern on the top of the batter. This not only looks beautiful but also helps the cake bake evenly.
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Bake to perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the boterkoek is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool and enjoy: Let the boterkoek cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Tips for Boterkoek Success
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Softened butter is key: Make sure your butter is properly softened to room temperature. This will ensure it creams well with the sugar, resulting in a light and airy texture.
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Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop gluten, resulting in a tough boterkoek. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
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Adjust sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the boterkoek to your liking. For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup.
FAQs About Boterkoek
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but omit the additional salt called for in the recipe.
Q: Can I freeze boterkoek?
A: Yes, boterkoek freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: What can I serve with boterkoek?
A: Boterkoek is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
A Taste of Dutch Tradition
Boterkoek is more than just a cake; it’s a taste of Dutch culture and tradition. This simple yet incredibly satisfying treat is sure to become a family favorite. So why not gather your ingredients and experience the joy of baking a delicious boterkoek in your own kitchen?
