Russian Christmas traditions are full of warmth, joy, and delightful treats. One such beloved recipe is Keks S Izyumom, a traditional raisin cake that is perfect for holiday celebrations. This rich and moist cake is a staple on many Russian dessert tables during the festive season. With its buttery crumb and bursts of sweetness from the plump raisins, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household.
**Keks S Izyumom Raisin Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup of raisins
– 1 cup of hot water
– 1 teaspoon of baking soda
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a small bowl, combine the raisins with the hot water and baking soda. Let this mixture stand for 15 minutes to plump up the raisins.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Gently fold in the plumped raisins along with any remaining water in the small bowl.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
This Keks S Izyumom Raisin Cake is a wonderful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee during the holiday season. The plump raisins add a burst of fruity sweetness to each bite, while the moist crumb and buttery flavor make it a truly comforting dessert.
So, whether you are looking to add a touch of Russian tradition to your Christmas menu or simply craving a cozy baking project, this classic raisin cake is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of nostalgia to your festive celebrations. Enjoy the process of baking this delightful cake and savor the warm flavors of the season with each delicious slice. Happy baking!
