This Soft and Aromatic Sweet Dough Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Made with eggs, warm milk, butter, and dried fruits, this cake has a fluffy, tender texture and a fragrant citrus aroma from fresh orange peel. Baked to a golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar, this homemade cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent dessert. Enjoy it with coffee, tea, or a scoop of ice cream for a truly special experience!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour
- Baking Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 400 ml warm milk
- 1 packet dry yeast (7g)
- 100 ml oil
- 780 g flour (adjust as needed)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 70 g softened butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for butter)
- Peel of 1 orange, finely grated
- Handful of raisins, blueberries, walnuts, or any dried fruit/nuts of your choice
For Brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for sprinkling
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and warm milk.
- Sprinkle dry yeast over the mixture and let it activate for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Add oil, softened butter, and orange peel to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually incorporate flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Add Fruits & First Rise
- Gently knead in raisins, blueberries, walnuts, or your choice of dried fruit/nuts.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape & Second Rise
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air.
- Shape into a round cake or bread loaf and place on a greased baking pan.
- Cover and let it rise for another 20 minutes.
Step 5: Preheat & Prepare for Baking
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- In a small bowl, whisk egg yolk and milk and brush over the dough’s surface for a golden crust.
Step 6: Bake & Cool
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Garnish with fresh berries for a fruity contrast.
- Drizzle with honey or chocolate sauce for added sweetness.
- Enjoy as breakfast or brunch with a warm beverage.
Cooking Tips
- Use warm (not hot) milk to activate the yeast properly.
- Adjust flour if the dough is too sticky; it should be soft but manageable.
- Let the dough rise properly for a fluffy and light texture.
- Brush with egg yolk and milk for a beautiful golden finish.
- Use high-quality dried fruits and nuts for better flavor and texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: Eggs and nuts provide a protein boost.
- Rich in Fiber: Dried fruits and nuts add fiber for better digestion.
- Loaded with Vitamins: Orange peel and eggs provide essential nutrients.
- Healthy Fats: Butter and nuts contribute beneficial fats for energy.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – 1 Slice)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, fluffy, and aromatic with a rich buttery texture.
- Perfectly sweet and tangy with hints of orange and dried fruits.
- Versatile and easy to customize with different fillings.
- A great holiday or everyday treat for breakfast or dessert.
Recipe Conclusion
This Soft and Aromatic Sweet Dough Cake is a heavenly combination of light, fluffy texture and rich, buttery flavor. Whether enjoyed freshly baked or as a next-day treat, this cake will quickly become a household favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of homemade perfection!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
- Yes! Use 21g of fresh yeast dissolved in warm milk instead of dry yeast.
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What can I use instead of quark?
- This recipe doesn’t use quark, but Greek yogurt can replace butter for a lighter version.
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Can I make this cake dairy-free?
- Yes! Use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk.
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What nuts work best in this recipe?
- Walnuts, almonds, or pecans add the best texture and flavor.
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Can I skip the dried fruit?
- Yes! The cake is still delicious without dried fruit, or you can add chocolate chips instead.
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How do I know when the cake is done baking?
- Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
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What flour works best?
- All-purpose flour works great, but bread flour can be used for extra chewiness.
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Can I use honey instead of sugar?
- Yes! Replace sugar with equal amounts of honey or maple syrup.
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What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Wrap in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
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Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
Try this Soft and Aromatic Sweet Dough Cake today and enjoy a warm, comforting, homemade treat! 🍞✨