This soft and aromatic Sweet Dough Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion. Made with eggs, warm milk, butter, and a delightful mix of dried fruits and nuts, it’s a golden-baked dessert that’s fluffy, rich, and irresistibly delicious. Sprinkled with powdered sugar, this cake is a beautiful addition to your table, whether for family gatherings or festive celebrations.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour
- Baking Time: 50–60 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 10–12
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 400 ml warm milk
- 1 packet (7 g) dry yeast
- 100 ml oil
- 780 g flour (adjust as needed)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 70 g softened butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar (to mix with butter)
- Peel of 1 orange (zested)
- Handful of raisins, dried blueberries, walnuts, or any dried fruit/nuts of choice
For Brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar for sprinkling
Directions
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, mix the eggs, sugar, and warm milk.
- Sprinkle the dry yeast over the mixture and allow it to activate for 10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
- Add the oil, softened butter, orange peel, and 2 tablespoons of sugar to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic.
- Add the dried fruits and nuts, kneading again to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a cake or bread loaf.
- Place the dough on a greased baking pan.
6. Brush and Bake:
- Mix the egg yolk and milk, then brush the top of the dough.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until golden brown and fully baked.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar, slice, and serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Garnish with fresh berries or drizzle with honey for added flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid deactivating the yeast.
- Use well-softened butter for easy incorporation into the dough.
- Adjust the amount of flour as needed for a soft but manageable dough.
- Let the dough rise in a draft-free, warm spot for the best results.
- Insert a skewer into the center to check doneness—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Nutritional Benefits
- Dried fruits and nuts provide natural sweetness, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Eggs and milk add protein and richness to the dough.
- Homemade and free of artificial additives, this cake is a healthier dessert option.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting plant-based milk and butter.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 12 g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fluffy, aromatic, and filled with bursts of dried fruits and nuts.
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or as an everyday treat.
- Makes a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table.
Conclusion
This Sweet Dough Cake with Dried Fruits and Nuts is a delightful combination of softness, richness, and flavor. With its golden crust and aromatic filling, it’s a versatile dessert that’s as enjoyable with tea as it is at festive gatherings. Try this recipe for a comforting and crowd-pleasing treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
Fresh fruit may add too much moisture; dried fruit is recommended for the best texture. - Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter texture. - What other nuts can I use?
Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts work well as alternatives. - Can I skip the orange peel?
Yes, but the zest adds a lovely aroma and flavor. - How can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter. - How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Do not overbake, and store in an airtight container. - Can I add spices?
Yes, cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom would complement the flavors. - What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and the environment is warm enough for rising. - Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
Absolutely! Adjust the baking time as needed based on the pan size. - How do I know the cake is fully baked?
Insert a skewer or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.