Imagine waking up to the warm, aromatic scent of freshly baked Ontbijtkoek, a delightful Dutch breakfast cake that will transport you straight to the charming streets of the Netherlands! This moist, spiced loaf is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a heartwarming way to start your day. With its unique blend of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this cake is perfect for breakfast or as a cozy afternoon snack. Ready to impress your family and friends with a slice of this Dutch delicacy? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Dutch
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter and line with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, butter, brown sugar, and honey. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the butter is melted and sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
- Pour the warm milk and butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Whisk thoroughly until a smooth, thick batter forms. If using dried fruits, fold them gently into the batter.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to lift the cake out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. Traditional serving suggests enjoying with a thin layer of butter or alongside coffee.
Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, ensure that your milk and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Adding a pinch of cloves or allspice can give your Ontbijtkoek an extra depth of flavor.
- Dried Fruits for Extra Flavor: If you choose to add mixed dried fruits, consider soaking them in warm water or tea for a few minutes to plump them up. This will enhance their flavor and texture in the cake.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake towards the end of the baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the flavors to meld and ensures a better texture.
- Serve with Butter: For an authentic Dutch experience, serve your Ontbijtkoek with a thin layer of butter or alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a delightful pairing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
