Irish Rag
Irish Rag is a moist, fluffy cake with rich butter and vanilla flavor, perfect for family gatherings or tea-time indulgence, offering a delightful and comforting treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour and baking powder and set aside.
- Cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
- Add egg yolks one at a time and beat until fluffy.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with flour.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Fold in beaten egg whites gently until combined.
- Pour batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the egg whites are beaten until stiff peaks form before folding them into the batter. You can substitute half the butter with applesauce for a healthier option. If you're out of milk, use a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. Additionally, adding a pinch of salt to the flour mixture can enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Irish Rag warm or at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar. It pairs beautifully with Layered Cream Cheese And Strawberries for a dessert spread. For a festive touch, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of tea. This cake is versatile and great for celebrations or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Irish Rag in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to retain its moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Rag contains roughly 509 calories, with 6g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% 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
Can I use whole eggs instead of separating them?
Using whole eggs instead of separating them will result in a denser cake. The separated eggs contribute to a lighter texture, so it's best to follow the recipe as is for optimal results. If you're short on time, you can try using 4 whole eggs as a substitute, but the cake may not rise as much.
What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?
You can also experiment with adding nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Is Irish Rag suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze Irish Rag for up to three months. First, allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
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).