Buttermilk Fried Cakes

Prep: 720 min Serves: 42 Cuisine: American

Buttermilk Fried Cakes are fluffy, sweet pastries with a hint of nutmeg, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they appeal to all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons shortening
  • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon soda
  • 5 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Beat the eggs.
  2. Gradually add sugar, shortening, and soda, mixing with buttermilk.
  3. Sift together remaining dry ingredients and add to the mixture.
  4. Let the batter stand overnight in the refrigerator.
  5. Roll out and cut the dough into desired shapes.
  6. Drop the pieces into deep, hot fat (375°F) and turn over as soon as they rise to the top and are nicely browned.
  7. Drain on paper towels.
  8. Serve as desired, with glaze if preferred.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure the buttermilk is at room temperature before mixing. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the wet ingredients. Keep an eye on the frying process to avoid over-browning; they should be golden and fluffy. Check out more American recipes for similar delightful treats.

Serving Suggestions

These buttermilk fried cakes are delectable served plain or dusted with powdered sugar. For a special treat, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. They pair beautifully with fresh fruit or whipped cream, making them a great addition to brunch or dessert. Consider serving alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, place the cooled fried cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, helping to restore their crispiness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Buttermilk Fried Cakes contains roughly 170 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 10g fat.

170 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.2g 4% DV
Total Fat 10.1g 13% DV
Carbs 18.5g 7% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 185.8mg 8% DV
Potassium 101.5mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 5.7mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 14.9mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 3.3mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 53.5mg 4% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
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 a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute, but for a gluten-free option, consider a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture. Be aware that the taste and texture may vary slightly, but the overall result should still be delicious.

What can I use instead of shortening?

You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or vegetable oil. If using butter, note that it will impart a richer flavor. For a healthier alternative, try coconut oil, which also adds a slight tropical flavor to the cakes.

How can I make these cakes sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the sugar by 1/4 cup. Additionally, adding a hint of vanilla extract can enhance the overall sweetness without overpowering the flavor. Just be cautious not to overpower the buttermilk's tangy flavor.

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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