Introduction to Brownie Butter Cake
Are you searching for the perfect dessert to impress friends while balancing a busy professional life? Look no further than Brownie Butter Cake! This delightful treat combines the deep, rich flavors of a brownie with the light, buttery texture of a cake, making it a true indulgence that satisfies a sweet tooth without being overly complicated to make.
Why is Brownie Butter Cake the ultimate dessert for young professionals?
For many young professionals juggling work and personal life, time is a precious commodity. This recipe is designed with efficiency in mind. Not only does it come together quickly—allowing for effortless preparation between meetings or after a long day at the office—it also offers a dual-texture experience that's perfect for sharing at weekend gatherings.
Imagine treating yourself and colleagues to something that not only looks stunning but tastes divine. According to a study by the National Confectioners Association, indulging in dessert boosts mood and productivity, so why not elevate your spirits with this decadent dessert? Plus, it requires minimal ingredients. A simple grocery run will have you equipped to whip up this showstopper.
Whether you're winding down after a hectic week or entertaining friends, Brownie Butter Cake is your go-to solution for a delightful sweet escape!
Ingredients for Brownie Butter Cake
Creating a delicious Brownie Butter Cake requires the right mix of ingredients for both layers. With just a few key pantry staples and some fresh items, you’ll be well on your way to baking success!
Essentials for the brownie layer
For the base of this scrumptious cake, gather the following ingredients:
- Dark Chocolate: 140 g (5 oz) broken into pieces
- Unsalted Butter: 50 g (1¾ oz) to give richness
- Brown Sugar: 50 g (1¾ oz) for a subtle caramel flavor
- Egg: 1, at room temperature to bind everything together
- All-Purpose Flour: 35 g (1¼ oz) for structure
These ingredients create a fudgy brownie layer that perfectly complements the lighter cake on top.
Essentials for the butter cake layer
Now, let’s dive into the ingredients for the butter cake layer:
- Unsalted Butter: 120 g (4 oz) for a tender texture
- Sugar: 100 g (3½ oz) to provide sweetness
- Eggs: 2, at room temperature, to lighten the batter
- All-Purpose Flour: 120 g (4 oz) for fluffiness
- Baking Powder: 2 g (0.07 oz) to help it rise
- Fresh Milk: 50 ml to moisten the cake
Combining these will yield a delightful butter cake layer that enhances the rich brownie base beautifully. Ready to bake? Let’s get started on this tasty adventure!
Preparing Brownie Butter Cake
Cooking can be as enjoyable as the delicious results it yields. When you combine a rich brownie layer with a light, fluffy butter cake batter, you get an indulgent delight—Brownie Butter Cake. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this delightful dessert.
Preheat the oven and prepare the pan
First things first; preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is crucial because a properly heated oven ensures that your cake bakes evenly. While the oven is warming up, take your trusty 10cm x 20cm (4×8-inch) loaf pan and grease it well. To make cleanup easier, line it with aluminum foil, allowing the foil to hang over the edges a bit. By doing this, you’ll have easy access to lift out your cake after baking.
Make the brownie layer
Next, let’s get started on that decadent brownie layer. In a small saucepan, melt together 140 grams of dark chocolate and 50 grams of unsalted butter over low heat. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Once melted, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. Add 50 grams of brown sugar to the mixture and stir until fully blended. Beat in one room temperature egg, followed by 35 grams of all-purpose flour. Mix until smooth and pour the batter into your prepared pan. Now, it’s time to bake that delightful chocolate layer for just 15 minutes. Don't worry, you'll have more magic coming soon!
Create the butter cake batter
While the brownies are baking, we’ll whip up the butter cake batter. In a large bowl, beat together 120 grams of unsalted butter and 100 grams of sugar until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add in two room temperature eggs, mixing well after each addition. Now, fold in 120 grams of sifted all-purpose flour and 2 grams of baking powder, alternating with 50 ml of fresh milk. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. Did you know that fresh ingredients can really elevate the flavors in your baking? It makes a world of difference.
Combine layers and bake
Once your brownie layer is out of the oven and slightly cooled, it’s time to pour that lovely butter cake batter over the top. Don’t be shy; spread it evenly! Now, bake your Brownie Butter Cake in the oven at a lower temperature of 160°C (320°F) for about 25-30 minutes. This will give it a perfect texture without over-baking.
Check for doneness
To ensure your Brownie Butter Cake is ready, insert a cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, you’re all set! If there's still wet batter, pop it back in for a few more minutes. As you wait, you can almost taste that irresistible combination of rich chocolate and fluffy cake.
And just like that, you’ve crafted your very own Brownie Butter Cake. Keep this recipe in your baking arsenal for those special occasions or an indulgent weeknight dessert!
Variations of Brownie Butter Cake
Nutty Brownie Butter Cake
For a delightful twist, try adding your favorite nuts to the brownie layer. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds enhance the texture and add a rich flavor. Simply fold in about 50 grams of nuts after mixing the brownie batter. This nutty addition brings a satisfying crunch to your decadent Brownie Butter Cake, making every bite a delicious adventure.
Swirled Brownie Butter Cake with Fruit
Elevate your Brownie Butter Cake by incorporating fresh fruit! Swirl in pureed raspberries, strawberries, or even bananas into the butter cake layer for a burst of natural sweetness. This not only enhances the beautiful aesthetics but also adds a juicy, fruity flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the rich chocolate brownie base. Just gently mix the fruit into the batter before pouring it over the brownie layer to achieve that delightful swirled effect.
These variations promise to elevate your baking game and impress your friends and family! For more inspiration, check out these articles on baking substitutions and fun cake decoration techniques!
Cooking tips and notes for Brownie Butter Cake
How to ensure even baking
To achieve a perfectly baked Brownie Butter Cake, preheating your oven is essential. Make sure the oven temperature is accurate by using an oven thermometer. For an even bake, place your loaf pan in the center of the oven. Additionally, rotating the pan halfway through baking can help avoid hot spots, ensuring uniform cooking.
Tips for perfect layering
For seamless layering, pour the butter cake batter directly onto the warm brownie layer right after it comes out of the oven. This allows the two layers to meld beautifully. If you prefer less mess, consider using a piping bag to distribute the batter evenly. Don’t forget to gently tap the pan after pouring the batter to eliminate any bubbles and smooth the surface. Happy baking!
Serving suggestions for Brownie Butter Cake
Pairing with homemade ice cream
To elevate your Brownie Butter Cake, serve it warm with a scoop of homemade ice cream on top. The creaminess of the ice cream balances the rich layers of chocolate and buttery goodness, creating a delightful contrast. You can try classic flavors like vanilla or chocolate, or get adventurous with salted caramel or mint chocolate chip. Keeping it homemade ensures quality and taste — if you’re short on time, check out this easy homemade ice cream recipe.
Presentation ideas for gatherings
Impress your guests by presenting your Brownie Butter Cake on a chic cake stand, dusted with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. Top it with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a touch of elegance. To personalize the experience, consider individual servings in decorative cupcake liners — perfect for parties! For a festive flair, add festive sprinkles or edible flowers. Don’t forget to serve it with a complimentary beverage, such as a rich coffee or a refreshing iced tea, to enhance the experience further.
Time breakdown for Brownie Butter Cake
Preparation time
Get your ingredients ready in about 15 minutes. This part is all about gathering everything you'll need and prepping your pans for the Brownie Butter Cake.
Baking time
While the brownie bakes for 15 minutes, you'll whip up the butter cake batter. Once layered, it needs another 25-30 minutes in the oven to achieve perfect doneness.
Total time
In just under an hour, you'll move from the kitchen to enjoying a delicious slice of Brownie Butter Cake. Perfect for a cozy evening or impressing guests!
Nutritional facts for Brownie Butter Cake
When indulging in a slice of Brownie Butter Cake, it's helpful to know its nutritional makeup. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Calories
Each piece contains approximately 342 calories, making it a delightful treat without going overboard.
Protein
You can also enjoy about 5 grams of protein per serving, adding a bit of sustenance to this sweet satisfaction.
Sugar
With nearly 19 grams of sugar, this cake strikes a balance between sweetness and indulgence, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Understanding these nutritional facts can help you make informed choices while enjoying this delicious dessert! If you're curious about more detailed health information, check out the USDA FoodData Central for a deeper dive into ingredients.
FAQs about Brownie Butter Cake
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Brownie Butter Cake can be prepared a day in advance. Just bake it, allow it to cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps preserve its moisture and flavor. You might even find that the flavors meld beautifully overnight!
What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
For any leftover Brownie Butter Cake, simply place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. For the best flavor, bring it back to room temperature before serving or warm up individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
Can I use different types of chocolate for the brownie layer?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with varieties of chocolate for your brownie layer, such as semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or even dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content. Each type will give your Brownie Butter Cake a unique flavor profile, so don’t hesitate to find what suits your taste!
For more insights on chocolate choices, check out reputable sources like Fine Chocolates. Happy baking!
Conclusion on Brownie Butter Cake
In wrapping up our delicious journey through the Brownie Butter Cake, it’s clear that this dessert is the ideal treat for any occasion. Its rich, chocolatey layers paired with the buttery softness create a delightful flavor sensation that is hard to resist. Perfect for sharing—or not! Enjoy every slice.
For more baking inspiration, check out BBC Good Food for additional delicious recipes and tips.
Brownie Butter Cake
Equipment
- loaf pan
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- spatula
- oven
Ingredients
Brownie
- 140 g dark chocolate, broken into pieces
- 50 g unsalted butter
- 50 g brown sugar
- 1 whole egg, room temperature
- 35 g all-purpose flour
Butter cake
- 120 g unsalted butter
- 100 g sugar
- 2 whole eggs, room temperature
- 120 g all-purpose flour
- 2 g baking powder
- 50 ml fresh milk
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 10cm x 20cm (4×8-inch) loaf pan with aluminum foil.
- To make the brownie, melt the chocolate and butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the brown sugar until well blended.
- Add the egg and mix well. Fold in the flour and combine until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven.
- To make the butter cake, beat the butter with sugar until creamy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Fold in the sifted flour and baking powder, alternating with the fresh milk, and mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Spread the butter cake batter over the brownie layer. Bake in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked. Insert a cake tester into the center to check for doneness.
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