Khorasan cake. It sounds exotic, almost mythical, doesn’t it? And while this ancient grain might not transport you to a different era, it will definitely elevate your baking game. Imagine a cake with a subtly sweet, nutty flavor and a satisfyingly soft texture. That’s the magic of khorasan wheat, an heirloom grain that’s gaining popularity for its exceptional taste and nutritional benefits.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through every step. We’ll share tips, tricks, and answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your khorasan cake is nothing short of extraordinary. Let’s embark on this delicious journey together!
Gathering Your Ancient Grains and Modern Tools
Ingredients:
- 2 cups khorasan flour (and a little extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
Equipment:
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatulas
- Mixing bowls
- Toothpick
Khorasan Flour in a Bowl
Baking Like an Ancient Baker (Without the Clay Oven!)
Steps:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×13 inch baking pan. For an extra layer of protection against sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the khorasan flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour, Bake, and Cool: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Baking Success:
- Room Temperature is Key: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth, homogenous batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Check for Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness with a toothpick a few minutes before the minimum baking time is up. Ovens can vary, and you don’t want to overbake your cake.
Pouring Cake Batter into Pan
Khorasan Cake FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions
Q: What does khorasan cake taste like?
A: Khorasan cake has a delightful nutty and subtly sweet flavor that’s richer than traditional wheat cakes. It’s often described as having a buttery taste even before adding any frosting!
Q: Where can I find khorasan flour?
A: You can usually find khorasan flour at health food stores or online. Some larger grocery stores may carry it as well.
Q: Can I substitute khorasan flour with regular all-purpose flour?
A: While you can substitute all-purpose flour, it will alter the taste and texture of the cake. Khorasan flour has a higher protein content, which gives the cake a unique texture.
The Icing on the Cake: Serving and Enjoying
Once your khorasan cake has cooled completely, it’s time to frost and decorate! You can use your favorite frosting recipe or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve it with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Khorasan Cake on Plate
Making a khorasan cake is more than just following a recipe; it’s about connecting with the past and experiencing the unique flavors of an ancient grain. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your baking journey with us in the comments below. Happy baking!
