Pepper Cake

Pepper Cake is a unique and flavorful dessert that combines the rich, moist texture of a traditional cake with the unexpected warmth of black pepper and spices. The pepper adds a subtle heat, complementing the sweetness of the cake and enhancing the flavors of ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cocoa. This cake is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with bold flavors and want something a little different for their dessert table.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (you can increase to 1 teaspoon for a stronger pepper flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of ground black pepper (optional, for an extra kick)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, cloves (if using), and salt.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

1. While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of black pepper (if you want an extra spicy touch). The glaze should be smooth and pourable.

Step 7: Glaze the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the pepper cake and serve it on its own, or with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.

Cook Notes

• Pepper Level: If you’re new to the idea of pepper in dessert, start with 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. For a more adventurous kick, increase it to 1 teaspoon.
• Cocoa: The cocoa powder adds a rich depth of flavor without overpowering the spice. For a more chocolate-forward version, add 1/4 cup of melted dark chocolate to the batter.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves bring warmth to the cake, making it perfect for fall and winter. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your taste.

Variations

Chocolate Pepper Cake

Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra indulgent treat. You can also top the cake with a chocolate ganache instead of a simple glaze for a richer flavor.

Citrus Pepper Cake

Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a bright, citrusy contrast to the spicy black pepper.

Nutty Pepper Cake

Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the spices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made 1-2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can glaze it just before serving to keep the cake fresh and the glaze from soaking in too much.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 5 days, though it may slightly dry out in the fridge.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! You can freeze the cake without the glaze. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then add the glaze before serving.

Is this cake too spicy for kids?

The pepper in this cake is subtle and adds warmth rather than heat. If you’re concerned about the spice level for kids, start with 1/4 teaspoon of pepper and adjust based on their preference.

Pepper Cake is a bold and intriguing dessert that balances the sweetness of cake with the warmth and slight spice of black pepper and aromatic spices. This unique cake is perfect for those who love to experiment with flavors and want to try something different. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to surprise your taste buds, this pepper cake is sure to be a memorable treat!