Rhubarb Breakfast Cake
Introduction
The Rhubarb Breakfast Cake from The View from Great Island is a delightful recipe that combines the tangy flavor of rhubarb with the soft, moist texture of a breakfast cake. Perfect for a morning treat, this recipe is easy to make and versatile. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself, it’s a cake worth baking.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
-h5- Sugar -h5-
– 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons
-h5- Butter -h5-
– 1/2 cup, at room temperature
-h5- Eggs -h5-
– 1 large
-h5- Vanilla extract -h5-
– 1 teaspoon
-h5- All-purpose flour -h5-
– 2 cups (divided)
-h5- Baking powder -h5-
– 1 teaspoon
-h5- Salt -h5-
– 1/4 teaspoon
-h5- Whole milk -h5-
– 1/2 cup
-h5- Rhubarb -h5-
– 2 heaping cups (fresh, chopped)
-h5- Sanding sugar -h5-
– Optional, for topping
Prep Time
The preparation for this amazing Rhubarb Breakfast Cake is simple and takes only 15 minutes. Mixing the batter and preparing your rhubarb ensures that you’ll have a beautifully moist and delicious cake ready in no time.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the Rhubarb Breakfast Cake is approximately 45 minutes. The total time, including preparation, comes to about 1 hour. This recipe yields 9 square servings, making it perfect for sharing or saving for later.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9 square baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Rhubarb
Wash the rhubarb under cool water and dry it thoroughly. Trim both ends and dice it into small pieces, approximately 1/2 inch in size. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, using a hand or stand mixer, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and creamy. This will take about 2 to 3 minutes. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Step 4: Add the Egg and Extracts
Beat in the egg until fully incorporated. Then, add the vanilla and almond extracts, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly combined before moving to the next step.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently after each addition, being careful not to overmix, as this can affect the final texture of the cake.
Step 7: Fold in the Rhubarb
Using a spatula, gently fold in the diced rhubarb, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Transfer Batter to Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 9: Sprinkle with Sugar
Generously sprinkle the top of the batter with coarse or regular granulated sugar. This will create a slight crunch on top once baked.
Step 10: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; when it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
Step 11: Cool the Cake
Remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Rhubarb Substitutions
To substitute rhubarb, you can use other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Adjust the sugar amount if the alternative fruit is naturally sweeter than rhubarb.
Note 2: Buttermilk Alternatives
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup and then adding milk to equal one cup. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
Note 3: Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Serve the rhubarb cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its flavor.
Note 5: Adjusting Sweetness
If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the sugar in the batter slightly or add a glaze over the baked cake for extra sweetness.
Cook Techniques
How to Properly Prepare Rhubarb
Rhubarb stalks should be washed and trimmed to remove any rough or damaged ends. Be sure to discard any leaves as they are toxic. Afterward, chop the rhubarb into evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform baking.
Balancing Sweetness with Rhubarb’s Tartness
When using rhubarb in a recipe, ensure you balance its natural tartness with an appropriate amount of sugar. Accurately measuring the sweetener will help achieve the right taste. Adjust sweetness depending on personal preference.
Ensuring the Cake is Perfectly Baked
For a properly baked cake, preheat the oven and ensure the baking temperature is accurate. Use a toothpick or skewer to test doneness by inserting it into the center of the cake. When it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
How to Fold Ingredients
When folding in rhubarb or other ingredients, take care to do so gently, using a spatula. This ensures that the texture of the batter remains light and airy, which is key for a tender cake.
Testing Cake in a Variety of Pan Types
The recipe can be adjusted to various pan types such as a round pan, square pan, or even a loaf pan. Baking times might vary slightly based on the pan’s depth and material.
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Rhubarb for This Cake?
Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used if fresh rhubarb is unavailable. Make sure to thaw and drain the frozen rhubarb to remove excess liquid before adding it to the batter.
Is It Necessary to Peel Rhubarb?
No, it is not necessary to peel rhubarb for this recipe. The skin is edible and softens during the baking process.
How Should I Store Leftover Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for extended freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Rhubarb?
If rhubarb is not available, you can substitute it with other tart fruits like cranberries or even strawberries for a sweeter variation.
Why Did My Cake Turn Out Dense?
A dense cake may result from overmixing the batter or not creaming the butter and sugar sufficiently. Ensure that you follow proper mixing techniques and measure ingredients accurately.
Can This Recipe Be Made Gluten-Free?
Yes, the recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free by replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.
How Can I Add a Crunchy Topping?
A crumble or streusel topping can be added for extra texture and flavor. Combine butter, sugar, and flour, then sprinkle it over the batter before baking.
Is This Cake Suitable for Breakfast?
Yes, this rhubarb cake is designed to be a perfect accompaniment to a morning coffee or tea and makes for a delightful breakfast treat.
What is the Best Way to Serve the Cake?
The cake can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of glaze for an extra touch.
Conclusion
The rhubarb breakfast cake is a delightful way to start your day, combining the perfect sweetness with tangy rhubarb. Whether enjoyed as a comforting breakfast or served as a light dessert, this cake showcases lovely flavors and a tender texture that will please any palate. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for rhubarb lovers seeking a versatile and satisfying recipe.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Rhubarb Muffins
Try baking moist rhubarb muffins for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or snack. These muffins can be a great way to use up any extra rhubarb.
Rhubarb Crumble
Create a warm and comforting rhubarb crumble for dessert with a crisp topping and a tart filling.
Rhubarb Compote
Cook up a simple rhubarb compote to pair with yogurt, ice cream, or pancakes for a tangy topping.
Rhubarb Bars
Bake rhubarb bars with a shortbread crust for a delightful treat perfect for sharing.
Rhubarb Pie
Go classic with a homemade rhubarb pie, a timeless dessert combining sweet and tart flavors between a flaky crust.
Rhubarb Jam
Whip up some rhubarb jam to spread over toast or use as a filling for baked goods. Its bold flavor will elevate any dish.
Rhubarb Galette
Opt for a rustic rhubarb galette to enjoy the flavors of pie with a simpler preparation process.
Rhubarb Smoothie
Blend rhubarb into a refreshing smoothie with fruits like strawberries or bananas for a nutritious start to your day.
Rhubarb Chutney
Pair rhubarb chutney with roasted meats or cheese platters for a savory and tangy accompaniment.
Rhubarb Scones
Incorporate rhubarb into flaky scones for a unique twist on a traditional baked good.
