Simple Kefir Cake Recipe

This delightful kefir cake recipe is a quick and easy treat that can be made with minimal effort. With its fluffy texture and subtle tang from the kefir, this dessert is a great addition to any meal or a standalone indulgence. The combination of flour and semolina gives the cake a unique crumbly texture, while the sugar ensures it's perfectly sweet. Spiced with just a hint of soda for texture, this cake is an ideal vehicle for exploring other flavors, such as citrus zest or vanilla extract. The batter comes together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or the next day, it's a versatile dessert that pairs well with tea or coffee. Its simplicity makes it a favorite in many households, loved by both children and adults alike. Enjoy this cake warm or at room temperature for the best experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 2 cups semolina
• 2 cups kefir (or buttermilk or cultured milk)
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Preparation Time

• Total time: 60 minutes
  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F), ensuring the oven is hot when you place the cake in.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, semolina, sugar, and baking soda.
3. Pour in the kefir slowly, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients. Ensure there are no lumps for a smooth batter consistency.
4. Mix thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated with the kefir.
5. Grease a baking pan with butter or oil to prevent sticking, or use parchment paper for easier cleanup.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
7. Place the pan in the oven and let it bake, keeping an eye on it as it cooks due to the high temperature.
8. Check the cake after 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick or knife in the center. If it comes out clean, it's ready. If not, bake for additional time, checking every 5 minutes.
9. Observe the color and softness; a golden top with a lightly firm middle is perfect.
10. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing.
11. Optional: Sprinkle confectioner's sugar on top for added sweetness and decoration.
12. Serve warm for a cozy dessert or let it cool completely for a firmer texture.
13. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
14. For an extra kick, consider adding lemon or orange zest to the batter before baking.
15. Enhance the flavor by including a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract into the mix.
16. To reduce sweetness, you can decrease sugar by half a cup and substitute with honey or maple syrup.
17. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend and check that the semolina is gluten-free.
18. For added texture, fold in nuts like almonds or walnuts before pouring the batter into the pan.
19. Monitor closely during baking, as temperatures may vary with different ovens.
20. Enjoy your cake with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a richer dessert experience.

Tips

• Use room temperature kefir for a smoother batter.
• Substitute dairy-free options if needed, like almond milk and apple cider vinegar for a vegan version.
• Cool the cake completely on the wire rack to ensure it maintains a soft texture inside.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
• Protein: 4 grams
• Fats: 2 grams
• Carbs: 52 grams

Variations

• Add some fresh berries to the batter for a burst of flavor.
• Coconut milk can replace kefir for a tropical twist.
• Incorporate cocoa powder into the mix for a chocolate version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate syrup for extra decadence.
• Enjoy alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack.

Best Places

• Maison Laudrée - A renowned patisserie known for delightful pastries. Location: 16 rue Royale, Paris, France.
• Café Central - Famous for its ambiance and delicious cakes. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Magnolia Bakery - Offers a wide variety of classic baked goods. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA.
• Conditorei Schober - Known for its traditional Swiss cakes. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.
• Café Sacher - Iconic for its classic Sacher Tortes. Location: Philharmonikerstrasse 4, Vienna, Austria.
• Pâtisserie Sadaharu Aoki - Known for innovative Japanese-French desserts. Location: 56 Boulevard de Port-Royal, Paris, France.
• Elena’s Bakery - Popular for its homemade style cakes. Location: 122 Váci út, Budapest, Hungary.
• Cakeland - Offers creative and whimsical cake designs. Location: 8 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
• Café Gerbeaud - Famous for its historical setting and pastries. Location: Vörösmarty tér 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Elegant setting with exquisite Italian cakes. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta 11/a, Milan, Italy.

Enjoy creating this simple yet delightful cake and savor the various cultural influences with every bite!