Sesame seed cake, with its nutty aroma and subtly sweet flavor, is a beloved treat in many cultures. This simple cake is surprisingly versatile, perfect for breakfast with a cup of tea, a delightful afternoon snack, or even a unique dessert option. Today, I’m excited to guide you through making this delightful cake at home. Trust me, it’s much easier than you might think, and the result is incredibly rewarding!
The Story of Sesame Seed Cake
Did you know that sesame seeds are one of the oldest known oilseed crops, dating back over 3,000 years? Throughout history, these tiny seeds have been prized not only for their culinary uses but also for their medicinal properties. It’s no wonder that sesame seed cake, with its ancient roots and nourishing ingredients, has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed worldwide.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, we’ll be using simple, readily available ingredients to create a delicious sesame seed cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version)
- ½ cup white sesame seeds
- ½ cup black sesame seeds (optional, for a more intense flavor and visual appeal)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
A Note on Ingredients
- Sesame seeds: Feel free to adjust the ratio of white to black sesame seeds based on your preference. You can also use hulled or unhulled seeds, with the latter adding a slightly chewier texture.
- Flour: While all-purpose flour works great, you can experiment with cake flour for a lighter, airier texture.
- Milk: You can substitute the milk with almond milk, soy milk, or another plant-based milk alternative.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional, but helpful)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Toothpick
Let’s Make Sesame Seed Cake!
Step 1: Preparing the Pan and Preheating
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. For easier cleanup, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Combining the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sesame seeds, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, resulting in a cake that rises beautifully.
Step 3: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, leading to a tender crumb.
Step 4: Adding the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Vanilla enhances the other flavors and adds a warm note to the cake.
Step 5: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix, as it can make the cake tough.
Step 6: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
