Loaf Cake. Mrs. John Landon. Recipe

Loaf Cake is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. With its moist and tender crumb, it is no wonder why this cake has stood the test of time. It is believed that the origins of Loaf Cake can be traced back to Victorian England, where it was often served as an afternoon tea treat.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Mrs. John Landon's Loaf Cake. To prepare this delectable cake, you will need the following ingredients:

- Whites of five eggs
- Two cups of white sugar
- One cup of butter
- One cup of sweet milk
- Two and a half cups of flour
- One cup of corn starch dissolved in some of the milk
- Half teaspoonful of soda
- One teaspoonful of cream tartar

To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to ensure easy removal of the cake once baked.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add in the sugar and continue to beat until well combined. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sweet milk until smooth and creamy. Slowly incorporate this mixture into the egg white and sugar mixture, mixing well.

In another bowl, sift together the flour, corn starch, soda, and cream tartar. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the remaining milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once the cake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.

Now, it's time to enjoy your homemade Loaf Cake! This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a simple afternoon snack or a special celebration. Its versatile flavor pairs well with a variety of toppings and fillings.

If desired, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar or top it with a glaze or frosting of your choice. Some popular options include lemon glaze, cream cheese frosting, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.

Fun fact: Loaf Cake is often associated with the holiday season, especially in some European countries. It is a traditional treat enjoyed during the festive period and is often baked with additional ingredients such as dried fruits, nuts, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Similar recipes to Loaf Cake include Pound Cake and Fruit Bread. Pound Cake is a rich and buttery cake that gets its name from the original recipe that called for a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Fruit Bread, on the other hand, incorporates dried or fresh fruits into the batter, giving it a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

So, whether you choose to savor the simplicity of Loaf Cake or explore the variations in Pound Cake and Fruit Bread, these delightful treats are sure to satisfy your cravings for a moist and flavorful baked good.