Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will tantalize your taste buds like never before! The Watkins Five Flavor Cake is not just another dessert - it's a culinary masterpiece that brings together an incredible symphony of tastes in every single bite. Imagine a cake so rich and complex that it captures the essence of vanilla, almond, lemon, and coconut in one stunning creation that will have your guests begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 5 eggs
- 3 cups flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 tsp lemon extract
- 1 tsp coconut extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan or bundt pan, ensuring all surfaces are evenly coated to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale yellow, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next, which helps create a smooth, uniform batter.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder to remove any lumps and ensure even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Do not overmix to maintain the cake's tender texture.
- Add the four extracts - vanilla, almond, lemon, and coconut - to the batter. Gently fold them in until evenly distributed, creating the signature five-flavor profile.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean with just a few crumbs attached.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan.
- Carefully invert the cake onto a wire cooling rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing or frosting.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or prepare a simple glaze to enhance the cake's flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure smooth mixing and optimal texture.
- When creaming butter and sugar, don't rush the process - a full 3-4 minutes creates the perfect light and fluffy base.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding flour, as this can make the cake tough.
- Use fresh, high-quality extracts to maximize the distinctive flavor profile.
- For the most even baking, rotate the cake pan halfway through cooking time.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding any frosting or glaze to prevent melting.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 125mg
