Soft Mother Cake Recipe

Welcome to Binnur’s Kitchen! Today, I’m sharing with you a traditional Mother Cake recipe—soft like a sponge and incredibly fragrant. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for tea time or a comforting treat for any occasion.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • Eggs: 4 large
  • Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g)
  • Oil: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Yogurt: 1 cup (240 ml), room temperature
  • Flour: 3 cups (375g)
  • Baking Powder: 1 packet (10g)
  • Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
  • Vanilla Sugar: 1 packet (8g)
  • Roasted Sesame Seeds (optional): For sprinkling

Directions

  1. Prepare the Egg and Sugar Mixture:
    In a deep bowl, add 4 eggs and 1/2 cup of sugar. Beat with a mixer until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and foamy. You can also use a hand whisk if preferred.
  2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
    Once the egg mixture is well-aerated, gradually add 1 cup of oil, 1 cup of milk, and 1 cup of room-temperature yogurt. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the desired sponge-like texture.
  3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
    Sift 3 cups of flour into the wet mixture to aerate it. Add the baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla sugar through a sifter to avoid clumping.
  4. Mix the Batter:
    Use a spatula to gently fold the flour into the wet ingredients. Stir the batter from the bottom up until smooth and lump-free.
  5. Prepare the Tray:
    Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease a large round baking tray with oil or butter. Pour the cake batter into the tray and lightly tap the tray on the counter to release any air bubbles.
  6. Add Sesame Seeds (Optional):
    Sprinkle roasted sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture. If you prefer a plain cake, you can skip this step.
  7. Bake the Cake:
    Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. Do not open the oven during the first 20 minutes to ensure the cake rises well. After 35 minutes, check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
  8. Cool and Serve:
    Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve and enjoy this soft, sponge-like cake with tea or coffee.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Tea or Coffee: Pair this Mother Cake with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
  • Add a Topping: Drizzle with honey or dust with powdered sugar for a sweeter finish.
  • Serve with Fruit: Fresh fruits like berries or apples complement the lightness of the cake.

Cooking Tips

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the yogurt, milk, and eggs are all at room temperature to ensure the cake rises properly and has a sponge-like texture.
  • Gentle Mixing: After adding the flour, gently fold the batter with a spatula to avoid over-mixing, which can make the cake dense.
  • Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test to ensure the cake is fully baked before removing it from the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Classic Comfort: The Mother Cake is a traditional, comforting dessert that’s soft and fluffy with a delightful vanilla flavor.
  • Simple Ingredients: With basic pantry ingredients, this cake is easy to prepare.
  • Customizable: Add sesame seeds, nuts, or even chocolate chips for variety.
  • Perfect Texture: The airy and light texture makes it a family favorite for all occasions.

Conclusion

This fragrant and spongy Mother Cake is a delightful and simple recipe that you can make with everyday ingredients. Its soft texture, combined with a light sweetness, makes it the perfect accompaniment for tea or coffee. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this cake is bound to become a go-to in your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
    Yes, but the texture might be slightly denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a balance.
  2. Can I replace yogurt with sour cream?
    Yes, sour cream can be used in place of yogurt, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
  3. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
    Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free.
  4. Can I add fruits to this cake?
    Yes, diced fruits like apples, berries, or even raisins can be folded into the batter for added flavor and texture.
  5. How do I store the cake?
    Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  6. Can I freeze this cake?
    Yes, the cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
  7. What can I substitute for sesame seeds?
    You can use poppy seeds, chopped nuts, or simply skip the topping if you prefer.
  8. Can I use butter instead of oil in this recipe?
    Yes, melted butter can be used in place of oil, but it may slightly change the texture and flavor of the cake.
  9. Can I use a different type of sugar?
    You can substitute white sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
  10. How can I prevent the cake from sinking in the middle?
    Ensure your oven is fully preheated, and avoid opening the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking to maintain even temperature