Farmer’s Daughter Cake recipe

From my grandmother’s worn recipe box, filled with handwritten cards stained with years of kitchen love, comes a treasure – the recipe for Farmer’s Daughter Cake. It’s not just a cake; it’s a memory, a taste of simpler times, and a hug in dessert form. Growing up, this cake was a constant presence at family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a simple Sunday supper. Its unassuming name belies the incredible flavor and moist texture that always had everyone reaching for seconds. Recently, I decided to bake it for a friend’s birthday, and the nostalgic aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to childhood. The first bite was as wonderful as I remembered – a perfect balance of warm spices, tender applesauce, and a comforting sweetness. My friends, who had never tasted Farmer’s Daughter Cake before, were completely smitten. “What is this magic?” one exclaimed, while another declared it the “best cake I’ve ever had!” It’s a cake that speaks to the soul, a reminder that sometimes the simplest things in life are truly the most delicious. And now, I’m thrilled to share this cherished family recipe with you, so you can experience the heartwarming goodness of Farmer’s Daughter Cake in your own kitchen. Get ready to fall in love with a classic!

Ingredients: The Heart and Soul of Farmer’s Daughter Cake

The beauty of Farmer’s Daughter Cake lies in its humble yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the cake’s signature moistness, warm spice profile, and comforting taste. Let’s explore each ingredient and why it’s essential for baking a truly authentic and delicious Farmer’s Daughter Cake:

• 2 Cups All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cake, all-purpose flour provides the structure and framework. It’s important to measure your flour correctly – spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife, rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can pack the flour and lead to a denser cake. For a slightly softer crumb, you could substitute 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with cake flour, but all-purpose flour alone works beautifully for this recipe. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a good quality gluten-free all-purpose blend can be used, but be sure to check if it contains xanthan gum, and if not, add a teaspoon to the dry ingredients for structure.
• 2 Teaspoons Baking Soda: Our leavening agent, baking soda is crucial for giving the cake its rise and light, airy texture. Ensure your baking soda is fresh; old baking soda can lose its potency and result in a flat cake. Baking soda reacts with the acidity in the applesauce and brown sugar to create carbon dioxide, which makes the cake rise. Accurate measurement is key – too much baking soda can lead to a bitter taste, while too little will result in a dense cake.
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon is the star spice in Farmer’s Daughter Cake, lending its warm, sweet, and slightly woody notes. Use good quality ground cinnamon for the best flavor. For an even richer cinnamon flavor, you can use freshly grated cinnamon from a cinnamon stick, but ground cinnamon is perfectly convenient and delicious. Cinnamon not only adds flavor but also enhances the perceived sweetness of the cake and complements the applesauce beautifully.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: Nutmeg adds a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic depth to the spice profile. Freshly grated nutmeg is always preferable for its intense flavor, but ground nutmeg works well too. A little nutmeg goes a long way, so don’t be tempted to add too much, as it can become overpowering. Nutmeg works synergistically with cinnamon to create a classic autumnal spice blend.
• 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Cloves: Cloves bring a strong, pungent, and slightly sweet warmth to the spice mix. Ground cloves are quite potent, so use them sparingly. They add a subtle complexity and depth that rounds out the spice profile. Like nutmeg, fresh cloves have a more intense flavor, but ground cloves are convenient and effective.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Salt: Salt is a flavor enhancer in baking; it doesn’t just make things salty, but rather balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of all the other ingredients. Use regular table salt or fine sea salt. Salt is essential for controlling the sweetness and preventing the cake from tasting flat.
• 1 Cup Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness and also contributes to the cake’s moistness and tenderness. It also helps with browning and caramelization during baking. While you could experiment with reducing the sugar slightly, it’s important for both flavor and texture in this recipe.
• 1 Cup Packed Light Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper sweetness, a molasses-like flavor, and contributes significantly to the cake’s moistness. Make sure to pack the brown sugar firmly into your measuring cup to ensure you have the correct amount. Light brown sugar is preferred for its milder molasses flavor, but dark brown sugar can be used for a richer, more intense molasses note.
• 1/2 Cup Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is the primary source of fat in this cake and is crucial for its incredibly moist texture. Oil-based cakes tend to be moister than butter-based cakes because oil remains liquid at room temperature, keeping the cake soft. Use a neutral-flavored vegetable oil like canola oil, soybean oil, or safflower oil. Avoid strongly flavored oils like olive oil, which can overpower the delicate spice flavors.
• 2 Large Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together, add richness, and contribute to the cake’s structure. Use large eggs at room temperature for better emulsification and incorporation into the batter. Room temperature eggs also help to create a smoother batter and a more even rise.
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake, adding a warm, sweet, and aromatic note. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor; avoid imitation vanilla, which can taste artificial. For an even more intense vanilla flavor, you can use vanilla bean paste or scrape the seeds from a vanilla bean.
• 1 Cup Unsweetened Applesauce: Applesauce is the secret ingredient that makes Farmer’s Daughter Cake exceptionally moist and tender. It also adds a subtle apple flavor that complements the spices beautifully. Use unsweetened applesauce to control the sweetness of the cake. You can use homemade or store-bought applesauce. If you only have sweetened applesauce, you may want to slightly reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe.
• 1 Cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (Optional): Nuts add a delightful crunch, nutty flavor, and textural contrast to the soft cake. Walnuts and pecans are both excellent choices. You can toast the nuts lightly before chopping them to enhance their flavor and crunch. If you prefer a nut-free cake, you can simply omit the nuts without significantly altering the cake’s texture or flavor. Alternatively, you could substitute with raisins or dried cranberries for a different textural element.

Ingredient Quality Matters: While Farmer’s Daughter Cake is a simple recipe, using good quality ingredients will always result in a better-tasting cake. Fresh spices, good quality vanilla extract, and wholesome applesauce will all contribute to the overall deliciousness of your bake.

Instructions: Baking Your Farmer’s Daughter Cake to Perfection

Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake a perfect Farmer’s Daughter Cake. Each step is designed to ensure your cake is moist, flavorful, and beautifully textured:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, you can grease the pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the cake out after baking. This is especially helpful if you plan to frost the cake and want to remove it from the pan for serving. Properly preparing the pan is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Whisking helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and spices throughout the flour, ensuring consistent leavening and flavor in every bite. This step also helps to aerate the flour slightly, which can contribute to a lighter cake texture.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Whisking vigorously helps to emulsify the oil and eggs, creating a smooth and homogenous mixture. Ensure the sugars are well incorporated into the wet ingredients.
4. Add Applesauce: Stir in the unsweetened applesauce into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix at this stage. Applesauce adds moisture and tenderness, so gently fold it into the batter.
5. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed with an electric mixer or by hand with a spatula until just combined. Mix until the flour is just incorporated and no streaks of dry flour remain. Be careful not to overmix the batter at this stage, as overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher cake. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine.
6. Fold in Nuts (Optional): If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter until evenly distributed. Fold in the nuts at the end to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.
7. Pour Batter into Prepared Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Spread the batter to the corners of the pan using a spatula to ensure an even layer.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when gently pressed in the center.
9. Cool in Pan: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before frosting (if desired) or slicing and serving. Cooling the cake slightly in the pan allows it to set up and makes it easier to handle.
10. Frost (Optional) and Serve: Farmer’s Daughter Cake is delicious unfrosted, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a simple glaze. For a classic pairing, consider a cream cheese frosting or a brown sugar glaze. Once frosted (if desired), slice the cake into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Baking Success:

• Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, and accurate measurements are crucial for success. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
• Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check for doneness. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter.
• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Nutrition Facts: A Comforting Treat in Moderation

Farmer’s Daughter Cake is a delicious and comforting treat, but like all cakes, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here’s a general nutritional breakdown for one serving of Farmer’s Daughter Cake (based on approximately 12 servings, unfrosted):

• Servings: 12 slices (approximate)
• Calories Per Serving (approximately): 250-350 calories (This can vary depending on slice size and whether or not frosting is added.)

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown per Serving (unfrosted):

• Fat: 12-18 grams (primarily from vegetable oil and eggs)
• Protein: 3-4 grams (from eggs and flour)
• Carbohydrates: 35-45 grams (primarily from sugar and flour)

Other Nutritional Considerations:

• Sugar: Farmer’s Daughter Cake is relatively high in sugar, as are most cakes. Be mindful of sugar intake if you are watching your sugar consumption.
• Sodium: Sodium content is moderate, primarily from salt and baking soda.
• Fiber: Fiber content is relatively low.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Cake is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, though eggs do contribute some vitamins.

Important Note: These are estimated values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, slice size, and whether frosting is added. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific quantities and brands of ingredients you use. Adding frosting, especially cream cheese frosting, will significantly increase the calorie and fat content.

Preparation Time: Simple and Straightforward Baking

Farmer’s Daughter Cake is known for its simplicity and relatively quick preparation time. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated time involved:

• Prep Time (Measuring Ingredients, Mixing Batter): 15-20 minutes
• Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes (before frosting or serving)
• Total Time (Approximate): 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes

Make-Ahead Convenience:

Farmer’s Daughter Cake is a great make-ahead dessert, which is perfect for busy schedules or when you’re entertaining.

• Cake: The baked cake can be stored at room temperature, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake actually becomes even moister the day after baking.
• Frosting: If you plan to frost the cake, you can make the frosting ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring the frosting to room temperature and whip it lightly before frosting the cake.
• Assembling: Frost the cake just before serving or a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. If frosted with cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep it refrigerated.

Time-Saving Tips:

• Measure Ingredients in Advance: Measure out all your dry and wet ingredients before you start mixing. This speeds up the baking process and makes it more efficient.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• Simple Frosting or No Frosting: For a quicker dessert, opt for a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a quick glaze instead of a more elaborate frosting. The cake is delicious even without frosting!

How to Serve Farmer’s Daughter Cake: Versatile and Delightful

Farmer’s Daughter Cake is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for different occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Slice: Serve the cake in classic square or rectangular slices. This is perfect for everyday enjoyment, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
• Warm with Ice Cream: For a comforting dessert, serve a warm slice of Farmer’s Daughter Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream. The warm cake and cold ice cream create a delightful contrast.
• With Whipped Cream: Top a slice of cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or sweetened whipped cream for a lighter and airy topping.
• Dusted with Powdered Sugar: For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar just before serving. This highlights the cake’s texture and adds a touch of sweetness.
• With a Glaze: A simple glaze, such as a brown sugar glaze, maple glaze, or vanilla glaze, adds extra flavor and moisture. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
• Frosted with Cream Cheese Frosting: Cream cheese frosting is a classic pairing for spice cakes. Frost the cooled cake with a tangy and creamy cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert.
• For Brunch or Dessert: Farmer’s Daughter Cake is suitable for both brunch and dessert. Serve it as a sweet treat at brunch or as a comforting dessert after dinner.
• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice of Farmer’s Daughter Cake with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or spiced cider. The warm spices in the cake complement these beverages perfectly.
• Fall or Winter Dessert: The warm spices make Farmer’s Daughter Cake an ideal dessert for fall and winter gatherings, holidays, and cozy evenings.

Occasions to Serve Farmer’s Daughter Cake:

• Family Gatherings: Perfect for family dinners, holiday celebrations, and potlucks.
• Casual Get-Togethers: Ideal for coffee dates, afternoon tea, or casual gatherings with friends.
• Birthday Parties: A delicious and crowd-pleasing birthday cake alternative.
• Thanksgiving and Fall Holidays: The warm spices make it a wonderful dessert for Thanksgiving and other fall holidays.
• Weeknight Dessert: Easy enough to bake for a simple weeknight dessert treat.
• Potlucks and Bake Sales: Travels well and is always a hit at potlucks and bake sales.

Additional Tips for Farmer’s Daughter Cake Success

To ensure your Farmer’s Daughter Cake is a resounding success, consider these additional tips:

• Tip 1: Use Room Temperature Ingredients: While not strictly essential for this recipe, using room temperature eggs can help create a smoother batter and better emulsification, leading to a slightly more tender cake.
• Tip 2: Don’t Overbake: Overbaking is the enemy of moist cakes! Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes and remove the cake from the oven as soon as a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Carryover cooking will continue to bake the cake slightly as it cools.
• Tip 3: Let Cake Cool Completely Before Frosting (If Frosting): If you plan to frost the cake with cream cheese frosting or any other frosting, ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting. Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
• Tip 4: Toast Nuts for Enhanced Flavor (Optional): If using nuts, toasting them lightly before chopping brings out their flavor and adds extra crunch. Spread the nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Let cool completely before chopping.
• Tip 5: Experiment with Spices: While the classic spice blend is delicious, feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. You can add a pinch of ground ginger, cardamom, or allspice for a slightly different flavor profile. Start with small adjustments and taste the batter (raw batter is safe in small amounts as it doesn’t contain raw eggs in this recipe) before baking.

FAQ: Your Farmer’s Daughter Cake Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Farmer’s Daughter Cake:

Q1: Can I use oil other than vegetable oil?
A: Yes, you can use other neutral-flavored oils like canola oil, soybean oil, or safflower oil. You can also use melted coconut oil, but it may impart a slight coconut flavor. Avoid strongly flavored oils like olive oil, which can overpower the cake’s spices.

Q2: Can I substitute the applesauce with anything else?
A: Applesauce is key for the moist texture and subtle flavor. If you must substitute, you could try mashed ripe banana or pumpkin puree, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Using yogurt is another possible substitution for moisture, but again, it will alter the final cake.

Q3: Can I make this cake in a different pan size?
A: Yes, you can bake this cake in two 9-inch round cake pans or a bundt pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly; round pans may bake slightly quicker, and a bundt pan may take a bit longer. Keep an eye on the cake and check for doneness with a skewer.

Q4: How do I store Farmer’s Daughter Cake?
A: Store unfrosted Farmer’s Daughter Cake at room temperature, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store frosted cake in the refrigerator due to the frosting, and bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Q5: Can I freeze Farmer’s Daughter Cake?
A: Yes, Farmer’s Daughter Cake freezes well. Cool the cake completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. It’s best to freeze unfrosted cake and frost it after thawing for optimal quality.

With these detailed instructions, tips, and answers to common questions, you are now well-equipped to bake a truly exceptional Farmer’s Daughter Cake. Enjoy the process of creating this heartwarming and delicious classic, and savor every moist, spiced bite!

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