Moravian Sugar Cakes Recipe

Moravian Sugar Cakes Recipe

History:
Moravian Sugar Cakes have a rich history deeply rooted in the Moravian community, particularly in the region of North Carolina, USA. The recipe was developed by Moravian settlers in the 18th century and has been passed down through generations. These cakes were traditionally made for special occasions and gatherings, and their unique texture and flavor quickly made them a beloved treat.

Fun Facts:
- Moravian Sugar Cakes are a popular delicacy during the holiday season, particularly around Christmas time.
- Some people claim that the recipe was brought over from Europe by Moravian immigrants, while others believe it was actually created in America by the Moravian settlers.
- The distinctive feature of this cake is the crunchy sugar topping that melts in your mouth.
- Moravian Sugar Cakes are often served with a cup of hot coffee or tea, making them perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon snacks.

Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed potatoes
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup sweet milk, scalded and cooled
- 1/2 cake of yeast, dissolved in 1 cup lukewarm water
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup mixture of lard and butter
- 9 cups flour (divided)
- Small bits of butter for topping
- Sugar for sprinkling
- Cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. At 5 o'clock in the evening, prepare the sponge or batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, sugar, sweet milk, dissolved yeast, eggs, lard, butter, and 3 cups of flour. Beat well until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

2. Place the batter in a warm place near the range and allow it to rest for the night. This will help the batter rise and develop its flavors.

3. The following morning, turn out the batter onto a floured surface, such as a bake-board. Knead the dough lightly and gradually add approximately 6 cups of flour. Continue kneading until the dough becomes soft and elastic.

4. Preheat the oven to a moderate temperature.

5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about one inch. Cut the dough into cakes and place them in pie tins or on a baking sheet. Make sure to leave enough space between each cake for them to expand.

6. Using a fork, punch half a dozen small holes in the top of each cake. Insert small bits of butter into the holes. This will give the cakes a rich, buttery flavor.

7. Sprinkle sugar liberally over the cakes. If desired, add a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

8. Place the cakes in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the cakes turn golden brown.

9. Once the cakes are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Moravian Sugar Cakes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are warm and fragrant. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance the experience. These cakes can also be stored in an airtight container for a few days, but they are at their best when eaten fresh.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
1. Cinnamon Rolls: These soft and sweet rolls are made with a similar dough and also have a cinnamon sugar topping. However, they are rolled up and sliced before baking, resulting in a delightful swirl effect.
2. Yeast Donuts: With a dough made from yeast and similar ingredients, yeast donuts also have a soft and fluffy texture. They are usually fried and coated with sugar or frosting, making them a tempting treat for breakfast or dessert.
3. Streusel Coffee Cake: This coffee cake features a buttery streusel topping of sugar, flour, and cinnamon. It is perfect for brunch or as a sweet accompaniment to your morning cup of coffee.
4. Danish Pastry: Danish pastries are flaky, buttery pastries filled with various sweet fillings, such as fruit jam or cream cheese. They have a similar texture to Moravian Sugar Cakes and are equally delicious.