Dutch Butter Cake, or Boterkoek, is a traditional Dutch treat known for its rich, buttery flavor and dense, cake-like texture. This delightful dessert is simple to make and perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 large egg white, lightly beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round springform pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, fine salt, and ground nutmeg. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar and packed light brown sugar to the butter and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Flavorings and Eggs:
- Mix in the orange zest, room temperature egg, room temperature egg yolk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to the prepared springform pan, pressing it evenly into the pan with a spatula or your fingers. Smooth the top to create an even surface.
- Brush with Egg White:
- Lightly brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg white. This will give the cake a beautiful glossy finish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, remove from the springform pan and cut into wedges to serve.
Cook’s Notes:
- Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth, creamy texture.
- Orange Zest: For a more intense citrus flavor, you can increase the amount of orange zest or substitute with lemon zest.
- Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg will provide a more robust flavor compared to pre-ground nutmeg.
Variations:
- Almond Flavor: Substitute the orange zest with 1 teaspoon of almond extract for a classic almond-flavored Boterkoek.
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon and a dash of ground cloves to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced version of this cake.
- Fruit Topping: Arrange thin slices of apples or pears on top of the dough before baking for a fruity twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, Dutch Butter Cake can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
2. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
3. Can I freeze Dutch Butter Cake? Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. What can I serve with Dutch Butter Cake? This cake is delicious on its own but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a side of fresh berries.
5. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted? If you use salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/2 teaspoon to prevent the cake from becoming too salty.
Dutch Butter Cake, with its rich buttery flavor and dense, crumbly texture, is a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee, as a dessert, or as an afternoon snack, this traditional Dutch cake is sure to impress. Simple to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Enjoy baking and savoring this wonderful cake!
