Granny Hughe'S Plain Cake
A rich, buttery plain cake with a tender crumb, perfect for family gatherings or teatime, showcasing classic vanilla flavor and moist texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar together until fluffy using a mixer.
- Add sifted flour gradually, mixing well after each addition.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Grease and flour the cake pan.
- Bake in a cool oven at 325° to 350° for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with sugar. You can substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier version. If you don't have plain flour, all-purpose flour works well too. Ensure you mix the eggs thoroughly to incorporate air, which helps the cake rise beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This plain cake is delightful on its own, but you can enhance it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of No Cook Caramel Coconut Icing for added sweetness. It pairs well with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete meal experience, serve alongside a refreshing Rolanda Salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover plain cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave to regain its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny Hughe'S Plain Cake contains roughly 1468 calories, with 21g protein, 230g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but it may affect the flavor and texture. Butter provides richness and moisture that margarine may lack. If you choose to use margarine, opt for a stick variety for the best results.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, one way to help is to brush it with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water heated until dissolved. This adds moisture back into the cake. Additionally, ensure not to overbake it next time, as that can lead to dryness.
How can I make this cake more flavorful?
You can add zest from citrus fruits like lemon or orange to the batter for an extra zing. Incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can also elevate the flavor. Consider pairing it with a fruit compote or some whipped cream for a delightful twist.
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).