Polish cuisine is a treasure trove of delightful flavors and rich traditions, especially during the festive season. One cherished Christmas baking recipe that warms hearts and homes with its sweet aroma and cozy texture is the Placek Miodowy, also known as Honey Loaf Cake. This tender and moist loaf cake is infused with the golden sweetness of honey, making it a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee during the holiday season.
Placek Miodowy Honey Loaf Cake
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add the honey to the butter and sugar mixture and continue to mix until well incorporated.
5. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully combined before adding the next.
6. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and creamy.
7. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
10. Once baked, remove the Placek Miodowy from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
11. Carefully transfer the loaf cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Dust the cooled Honey Loaf Cake with powdered sugar for a decorative finish before slicing and serving.
Enjoy the delightful aromas of warm honey and festive spices that will fill your kitchen as you bake this lovely Polish Christmas treat. The Placek Miodowy is a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire, and its subtle sweetness and tender crumb will surely make it a family favorite for years to come. Share a slice with loved ones, and savor the joy and coziness that this Honey Loaf Cake brings to your home this holiday season. Happy baking!