Baptist Cakes
Baptist Cakes are light, fried pastries with a delicate texture, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Serve hot with maple syrup or Milk Sauce for a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine butter, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
- Add the scalded milk and boiling water; let cool until lukewarm.
- Dissolve the yeast cake in 1/3 cup warm water and add to the mixture.
- Add 1/2 cup of sifted bread flour and mix thoroughly with a spoon.
- Add another cup of flour and continue mixing.
- Turn out the dough on a floured board and knead until smooth and elastic.
- Return the dough to a clean bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise until double in bulk.
- Turn out the risen dough on a floured board and roll to 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut into strips 2 1/2 inches wide and then cut again to make squares or diamonds.
- Cover and let stand for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Fry in deep hot fat for about 4 minutes or until a delicate brown.
- Serve hot with maple syrup or Milk Sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the best texture, make sure your milk and water are lukewarm before adding the yeast, as too hot can kill it. If you don't have yeast cake, you can use 1 packet of active dry yeast instead. For a different flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. These Baptist Cakes are a delightful addition to any brunch treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Baptist Cakes hot, drizzled with maple syrup or alongside a creamy Milk Sauce for dipping. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt. For a delightful brunch, consider serving them with a fruit salad or alongside a slice of Blue Ribbon Banana Cake for a sweet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Baptist Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baptist Cakes contains roughly 264 calories, with 5g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1881mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of fat should I use for frying?
You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even shortening for frying the Baptist Cakes. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture, but ensure the fat is hot enough (about 350°F) to achieve a perfect golden color.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After kneading, let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate. When you're ready to fry, let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake Baptist Cakes for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375°F, place the cut pieces on a baking sheet, and brush them lightly with melted butter. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, checking frequently.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).