Big Mama'S Buttermilk Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 75 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A moist, tender buttermilk cake with subtle vanilla or lemon flavoring, perfect for gatherings or casual tea time, offering classic Southern comfort in every bite.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 c. Crisco
  • 2 1/2 c. sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 3 1/2 c. plain flour
  • 1/2 tsp. baking soda
  • 1 c. buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla or lemon flavoring

Instructions

  1. Mix Crisco, sugar, and eggs together until creamy.
  2. Dissolve baking soda in 2 tablespoons of water and add to the mixture.
  3. Add flour, buttermilk, and flavoring; beat well.
  4. Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured Bundt pan.
  5. Bake at 350°F for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, make sure to cream the Crisco and sugar until it's very fluffy. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors. For a unique twist, consider incorporating some citrus zest or nuts like pecans into the batter for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a lovely afternoon treat. For a festive touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze. It also makes a great dessert for gatherings or potlucks, complementing dishes like Corn Bread With Hot Peppers.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. If you wish to enjoy it warm later, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Big Mama'S Buttermilk Cake contains roughly 270 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value).

270 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.1g 4% DV
Total Fat 1.2g 2% DV
Carbs 22.8g 8% DV
Fiber 2.2g 8% DV
Sugar 10.3g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 453.3mg 20% DV
Potassium 269.4mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 3.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 14.2mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 18.2mg 20% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 54.8mg 4% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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

Can I use margarine instead of Crisco?

Yes, you can substitute margarine for Crisco, but it may alter the texture slightly. Margarine has a higher water content, which can make the cake a bit denser. If you do use margarine, ensure it's softened well and beat it thoroughly to incorporate air into the mixture.

What can I use if I don't have a Bundt pan?

If you don't have a Bundt pan, you can use two 9-inch round cake pans instead. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as the cakes will likely bake faster. Start checking for doneness around 30-35 minutes, and always use a toothpick to test for doneness.

How can I make this cake more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of this cake, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. You can also experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to personalize the flavor profile to your liking.

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).

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