Granny Cake
Granny Cake is a classic, moist, and flavorful dessert with warm cinnamon spice and optional fruit or nuts that evoke nostalgic charm. This easy, foolproof recipe uses simple pantry staples and results in a tender crumb perfect for any occasion, from cozy teas to festive celebrations.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Can be adapted to Gluten Free or Vegan
Basic Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup whole or 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup grated apple or dried fruit (e.g., raisins, chopped dates)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Preparing the Batter: Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This incorporation of air pockets helps the cake rise perfectly. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next to maintain a smooth mixture.
- Combining Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This evenly distributes the leavening agent and spices for consistent rise and flavor.
- Incorporating Wet and Dry: Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and milk to the butter and sugar mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps the texture tender and moist.
- Adding Fruit or Extras: Fold in grated apple, dried fruit, or chopped nuts at this stage for extra moisture and delightful texture contrast, giving your Granny Cake a homestyle, nostalgic quality.
- Baking Your Cake: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely to prevent breaking.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for better mixing and a tender texture.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and moist.
- Test doneness by inserting a toothpick or skewer; moist crumbs indicate perfect baking.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon to maximize the warm and comforting flavor.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to maintain structure and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of cake)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Granny Cake, classic cake, moist cake, cinnamon cake, nostalgic dessert, easy cake recipe