Looking for a delightful treat to elevate your afternoon tea or brunch gatherings? Look no further than this charming recipe for Queen Cakes NZ. These dainty little cakes are a classic favorite in New Zealand, known for their buttery crumb and delicate sweetness. They are perfect for a cozy weekend baking project or to impress your guests at special occasions. Let’s dive into the recipe and create these irresistible Queen Cakes NZ together!
**Queen Cakes NZ**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup currants or raisins
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. **Sift Dry Ingredients:** In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be easily done with an electric mixer or by hand using a wooden spoon.
4. **Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:** Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly combined.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
6. **Fold in Currants or Raisins:** Gently fold in the currants or raisins until evenly distributed throughout the batter. These dried fruits add a burst of flavor and texture to the Queen Cakes NZ.
7. **Fill the Muffin Cups:** Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter. This will allow the cakes to rise beautifully as they bake.
8. **Bake to Perfection:** Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cakes are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **Cool and Dust:** Once baked, remove the Queen Cakes NZ from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
10. **Serve and Enjoy:** These delightful Queen Cakes NZ are best enjoyed fresh, alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They make a lovely addition to any brunch spread or afternoon tea gathering. Share them with loved ones and savor the cozy, homemade goodness of these traditional treats.
Indulge in the simple pleasures of baking with this easy-to-follow Queen Cakes NZ recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, these little cakes are sure to bring joy to your kitchen and warmth to your heart. Bake a batch today and experience the magic of homemade treats that truly fit for a queen!
