Welcome to the delightful world of Russian Christmas baking! Among the array of traditional treats, the Smetannik Custard Cake stands out as a true star. This rich and creamy dessert combines the tanginess of sour cream with the sweetness of a classic cake, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors perfect for celebrating the festive season. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests with a show-stopping dessert or simply craving a cozy treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite in your home.
Smetannik Custard Cake
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup sugar
– 3 eggs
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Butter for greasing the pan
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a round cake pan with butter. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and sugar. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs to the sour cream mixture one at a time, incorporating each egg fully before adding the next.
4. Sift the flour and baking soda together and gradually add it to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure a tender crumb.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the cake batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface.
7. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once the cake has cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for a festive finish if desired.
10. Slice the Smetannik Custard Cake into wedges and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a cup of your favorite tea for a delightful Christmas treat that will surely impress your family and friends.
Enjoy the decadent flavors and creamy texture of this Russian Christmas classic, and embrace the festive spirit with each bite of this luscious Smetannik Custard Cake. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is a wonderful addition to your seasonal baking repertoire. Feel free to get creative with your decorations or toppings to customize this cake to your liking. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of Russian tradition this Christmas with this delicious and comforting dessert. Happy baking!
