Sunken raisin cake, also known as raisin pudding cake, is a comforting classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine biting into a warm slice with a cup of tea on a rainy afternoon – pure bliss! This cake is known for its soft, pudding-like texture and sweet, juicy raisins that sink to the bottom while baking, creating a rich, caramelized layer. It’s surprisingly easy to make and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. Today, I’ll guide you through every step to ensure your sunken raisin cake turns out perfectly moist and delicious every time.
Gather Your Ingredients:
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups raisins
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup water
Equipment You’ll Need:
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- 2 mixing bowls (one large, one small)
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
- Toothpick
Ingredients for Sunken Raisin Cake
Let’s Get Baking!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×13 inch baking pan. This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and water until well combined. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Pro Tip: “The sauce may seem thin now, but it will thicken as the cake bakes, creating that irresistible caramelized layer.” – Chef Emily Carter, Baking Enthusiast
Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done using an electric mixer, but you can also use a whisk and some elbow grease.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
FAQ: Can I use vanilla extract if I don’t have vanilla beans?
Yes, vanilla extract is a great substitute for vanilla beans. It provides a similar flavor and is more readily available.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, resulting in a cake that rises beautifully.
Step 6: Gradual Incorporation:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Why is overmixing bad? Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dense cake.
Step 7: Fold in the Raisins:
Gently fold in the raisins until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pouring cake batter into baking pan
Step 8: Pour and Bake:
Pour the cake batter over the sauce mixture in the baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Invert:
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to invert. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate or wire rack.
Tip: If you’re having trouble inverting the cake, run a thin knife around the edges to loosen it from the pan.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm sunken raisin cake plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. It’s the perfect dessert for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Additional Tips and FAQs:
- Can I use different types of raisins? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with golden raisins, currants, or a combination of your favorites.
- How do I store sunken raisin cake? Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake before adding the sauce. Once thawed, prepare and add the sauce as directed.
And there you have it – a foolproof guide to making a delicious sunken raisin cake. Now go ahead, put on your apron, and create something truly special in your own kitchen! Don’t forget to share your baking triumphs (and even mishaps – we all have them!) in the comments below. Happy baking!
