Loaf Cake. Mrs. Eliza Bowen. Recipe

Loaf Cake Recipe - Mrs. Eliza Bowen

History:
The Loaf Cake is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. Its origins can be traced back to the early 18th century, where it was a staple in British households. Originally a simple bread-like cake made with yeast, the Loaf Cake evolved over time to become a delicious and indulgent treat. Mrs. Eliza Bowen's recipe is a perfect example of a traditional Loaf Cake, packed with rich flavors and a moist texture.

Fun Facts:
- Loaf Cakes were often made in large quantities and stored for weeks, making them a practical option for busy households.
- This recipe utilizes the method of yeast fermentation, which adds a unique depth of flavor to the cake.
- The addition of raisins, currants, and citron not only enhances the taste but also adds texture and visual appeal to the Loaf Cake.

Ingredients:
- 1 pint of milk
- 2 quarts of flour
- 1 cup of yeast
- 4 eggs
- 1 pound of sugar
- 3/8 pound of butter
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 a nutmeg
- 1 cup of seeded raisins
- 1/2 pound of currants
- 1/4 pound of citron

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, flour, and yeast. Mix well until a thick dough is formed. Leave the mixture in a warm place overnight to ferment and rise.

2. The next morning, beat the eggs in a separate bowl until they become light and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar, butter, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the beaten eggs. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure a smooth consistency.

3. Once the dough has risen, add the egg mixture to it. Mix the dough and egg mixture together until completely incorporated. It is important to beat the dough for a long time to develop the gluten and achieve a light and airy texture.

4. Dredge the raisins, currants, and citron in flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake. Add them to the dough and mix well so they are evenly distributed.

5. Grease a cake pan and transfer the dough into it. Allow the dough to rise again for approximately 30 minutes. This will give the Loaf Cake a light, fluffy texture.

6. Preheat the oven to a temperature suitable for baking bread. Place the cake pan in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Once baked, remove the Loaf Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. The Loaf Cake is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for a long time, just like bread. This allows you to savor its delicious flavors over days or even weeks.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
The Loaf Cake is a versatile dessert that can be varied in many ways. Here are a few similar recipe dishes you might enjoy exploring:

1. Fruit Loaf Cake: Add your favorite dried fruits, such as dates, apricots, or figs, to the dough for a burst of natural sweetness.

2. Nutty Loaf Cake: Incorporate chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, into the dough to add a satisfying crunch to each bite.

3. Spiced Loaf Cake: Experiment with different spices, like ginger, cardamom, or allspice, to give your cake a warm and aromatic flavor profile.

4. Chocolate Loaf Cake: For all the chocolate lovers out there, replace a portion of the flour with cocoa powder and add some chocolate chips to create a decadent chocolatey delight.

Remember, the beauty of the Loaf Cake lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your preferences and create an endless array of delicious variations. Enjoy!