Soft and Aromatic Sweet Dough Cake

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)

  1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?

    • Yes! Use 21g of fresh yeast dissolved in warm milk instead of dry yeast.
  2. What can I use instead of quark?

    • This recipe doesn’t use quark, but Greek yogurt can replace butter for a lighter version.
  3. Can I make this cake dairy-free?

    • Yes! Use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk.
  4. What nuts work best in this recipe?

    • Walnuts, almonds, or pecans add the best texture and flavor.
  5. Can I skip the dried fruit?

    • Yes! The cake is still delicious without dried fruit, or you can add chocolate chips instead.
  6. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

    • Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
  7. What flour works best?

    • All-purpose flour works great, but bread flour can be used for extra chewiness.
  8. Can I use honey instead of sugar?

    • Yes! Replace sugar with equal amounts of honey or maple syrup.
  9. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

  10. 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! 🍞✨