Frau Schmidt's Molasses Cake Recipe

Recipe for Frau Schmidt's Molasses Cake:

History of the Recipe:
Frau Schmidt's Molasses Cake is a classic recipe that has been passed down through generations. This delicious cake originated in New Orleans, where molasses was a common ingredient in many desserts due to its rich flavor and affordability. The recipe was originally created by Frau Schmidt, a skilled baker known for her traditional treats. Over the years, the recipe has been cherished and enjoyed by families and friends, becoming a staple dessert for special occasions and gatherings.

Fun Facts:
- Molasses, one of the main ingredients in this recipe, is a thick, dark syrup made from the juice of sugar cane or sugar beets. It adds a distinctive flavor and moistness to baked goods.
- New Orleans molasses is known for its robust flavor, making it a perfect choice for this cake.
- Mixing butter and lard in the recipe helps to create a moist and tender texture.
- Sour milk, or milk that has been treated with an acid like lemon juice or vinegar, reacts with the soda to create a light and fluffy cake.
- The grated rind of an orange adds a refreshing citrus aroma and enhances the overall taste of the cake.

Ingredients:
- 1 pint of New Orleans molasses
- 3/4 cup butter and lard, mixed
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sour milk
- 2 teaspoons of soda
- 4 cups flour
- Grated rind of 1 orange

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease either a long dripping pan or two medium-sized cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and lard until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the sour milk and soda. Stir until the soda is dissolved.
5. Gradually add the sour milk mixture to the butter and egg mixture, alternating with the flour. Begin and end with the flour, mixing well after each addition.
6. Stir in the grated orange rind, ensuring it is evenly distributed in the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s), spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan(s) for 10-15 minutes.
10. If using a long dripping pan, cut the cake into square pieces. If using medium-sized cake pans, remove the cakes from the pans and let them cool completely on wire racks.
11. Serve the molasses cake as is or with your favorite frosting or glaze. It is delicious when enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy Frau Schmidt's Molasses Cake, you might also like these similar recipe dishes:

1. Gingerbread Cake: Similar to molasses cake, gingerbread cake features the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and other spices. It has a dense and moist texture, making it a delightful treat during the holiday season.

2. Boston Brown Bread: Boston brown bread is a steamed bread made with cornmeal, rye flour, and molasses. It is often enjoyed with baked beans and is a traditional New England dish.

3. Sticky Toffee Pudding: This British dessert is made with dates and drenched in a toffee sauce. It has a moist and sticky texture, similar to molasses cake, and is often served with vanilla ice cream or custard.

4. Parkin: Parkin is a traditional cake from Northern England, commonly enjoyed during the autumn and winter months. It is made with oatmeal, ginger, black treacle (similar to molasses), and is known for its sticky and moist texture.

These similar recipe dishes offer a delightful range of flavors and textures, providing a variety of options for those who enjoy the rich and comforting taste of molasses in their desserts.