Description
This Basil Sugar Pound Cake is a delightful twist on the classic pound cake, infused with fresh basil for a unique herbal flavor. The tender, moist cake combines the sweetness of sugar with the aromatic freshness of basil, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Baked to golden perfection, it’s great for afternoon tea or a special dessert, and can be lightly dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Herbs and Garnish
- ½ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming.
- Infuse Sugar with Basil: Combine the granulated sugar with the finely chopped fresh basil and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the sugar to absorb the basil’s aromatic flavor, creating a fragrant basil sugar.
- Cream Butter and Basil Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and basil-infused sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, helping the cake to rise and have a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. This helps maintain a smooth batter and even texture.
- Incorporate Vanilla and Basil: Stir in the vanilla extract and the remaining chopped basil to distribute the herbal flavor evenly throughout the batter.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your loaf pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake tough.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes to set. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired to add a touch of sweetness and decoration.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for best creaming results.
- Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to keep the cake tender.
- Using fresh basil gives a vibrant flavor; make sure it is finely chopped to infuse well.
- Dusting with powdered sugar is optional but adds a nice presentation touch.
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
