There’s nothing quite like the sweet scent of a classic cake wafting through your home, and this Old Fashioned Sugar Cake takes me right back to my childhood kitchen. With its light and fluffy texture, it feels like a warm hug in cake form—a perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of daily life. Made exclusively with egg whites, this delightful treat captures the essence of simplicity and flavor, transforming ordinary ingredients into something truly special.
You’ll love how easily it comes together in a dependable cast iron skillet, promising even heat and a beautifully moist crumb. Whether you enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or save it for an afternoon snack, this subtly sweet cake works perfectly for any occasion. Plus, it’s an excellent conversation starter when friends and family ask for the recipe. Get ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia as we dive into the delightful world of Old Fashioned Sugar Cake!
Why is Old Fashioned Sugar Cake a Must-Try?
Delightful aroma: Your kitchen will fill with a warm, buttery scent as this cake bakes, luring everyone in for a slice.
Simplicity at its finest: With basic ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether as a sweet breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, this cake shines any time of day.
Crowd-pleaser: Friends and family will rave about its light texture and subtle sweetness, making it a guaranteed hit at gatherings.
Nostalgic comfort: Reminiscent of childhood kitchens, this recipe evokes heartwarming memories, making each bite even more special.
Old Fashioned Sugar Cake Ingredients
For the Batter
- Vegetable Shortening – Provides moisture and tenderness; unsalted butter can enhance the cake’s flavor.
- Milk – Adds moisture, contributing to the cake’s softness; buttermilk offers a tangier twist if desired.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor with warmth and sweetness; it can be omitted for a more neutral taste.
- All Purpose Flour – Forms the cake’s structure, ensuring stability; gluten-free flour can be used, but results may vary.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake while aiding browning and moisture retention; reduce for a less sweet cake.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; minimal amount is necessary, generally non-substitutable.
- Egg Whites – Provide the cake’s lightness and structure; must be used without yolks to achieve the desired texture.
For Dusting
- Confectioner’s Sugar – Optional for dusting; adds a sweet finish without overwhelming the cake’s flavor.
Baking your Old Fashioned Sugar Cake in a cast iron skillet not only ensures even cooking but also enhances its delightful crumb!
How to Make Old Fashioned Sugar Cake
- Cream Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, cream together the vegetable shortening and milk for about 3 minutes until it resembles small curd cottage cheese. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for an added layer of flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed. This step is important for even texture!
- Incorporate Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mix in three additions, making sure to blend well after each addition. This ensures that the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Add Egg Whites: Gently fold in the egg whites with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overbeat; this keeps your cake light and fluffy!
- Prepare Skillet & Bake: Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured 10-inch cast iron skillet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cooling Process: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the skillet on a wire rack for at least 45 minutes before serving. If desired, dust with confectioner’s sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This Old Fashioned Sugar Cake is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, just make sure to refrigerate it tightly covered to retain moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into your prepared skillet and bake as directed. Another great option is to bake the cake a day in advance; let it cool completely, then store it wrapped at room temperature to maintain its delightful texture. Just dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving, and you’ll have a deliciously fresh cake ready to impress without the last-minute rush.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Sugar Cake?
Indulging in the blissful lightness of this cake prompts the perfect opportunity to create a well-rounded meal experience.
- Fresh Berries: A delightful accompaniment, fresh strawberries or blueberries add a vibrant touch of tartness that beautifully contrasts the cake’s sweetness. They not only elevate the dish visually but introduce a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds richness and creaminess, enhancing the cake’s textures—perfect for generous layering. It transforms each bite into a blissful experience that feels extra special.
- Coffee or Tea: The warm, inviting notes of coffee or the soothing earthiness of tea pair wonderfully with the cake, enhancing its delicate sweetness while providing a comforting experience. Both drinks compliment the light flavors, making it an ideal afternoon snack.
- Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream. The cold creaminess melts into the warm cake, creating a joyful combination of temperatures and flavors that is simply irresistible.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate ganache or melted chocolate adds a touch of elegance and indulgence, enhancing the cake with a rich flavor that pleases every sweet tooth.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top brightens the dish with a zesty kick, balancing the sweetness with a citrusy finish that refreshes the palate.
- Almonds or Pecans: Toasted slivers or chopped nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that enhances the cake’s rustic charm, making every bite textured.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of homemade lemonade or refreshing iced tea elevates the dining experience, offering a cooling contrast to the delightful sweetness of the cake.
Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Sugar Cake
- Room Temperature: Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal taste and texture.
- Fridge: If kept longer, place the cake in the refrigerator; it will stay fresh for about a week. Make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake by slicing and wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then sealing in a freezer bag. It’s good for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy frozen Old Fashioned Sugar Cake, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back freshness.
Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Sugar Cake
- Room Temperature Egg Whites: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature to achieve better volume when whipped into the batter, creating a light cake.
- Use a Seasoned Skillet: Opt for a well-seasoned cast iron skillet to enhance crust formation; avoid nonstick sprays that can interfere with texture.
- Check Freshness of Baking Powder: Always check the freshness of your baking powder to guarantee proper leavening; expired powder leads to a flat cake.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding egg whites, mix gently and stop as soon as combined—overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the desired lightness.
- Cooling Time is Essential: Allow the cake to cool in the skillet for at least 45 minutes to maintain its moisture and delicacy; cutting too soon can collapse the structure.
Old Fashioned Sugar Cake Variations
Indulging in this cake is a delight, but don’t hesitate to make it your own with these tasty variations!
- Citrus Zing: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright, refreshing flavor that elevates the sweet notes. The zest provides a lovely aromatic touch that keeps things interesting.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an inviting crunch and earthy flavor. The contrasting textures make each bite a delightful surprise!
- Chocolate Delight: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips (milk or dark) for a chocolatey twist that’s sure to please any sweet tooth. Imagine how heavenly this cake will taste warm from the oven, with melted chocolate cascading throughout!
- Berry Bliss: Top slices with fresh berries or serve with a side of berry compote to bring a burst of tartness that complements the cake’s sweetness perfectly. The combination of flavors is as lovely as it is delicious.
- Almond Essence: Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique flavor profile that’s subtly sweet and aromatic. This change will make your kitchen smell divine and impress your guests!
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm spice that deepens the flavor. These spices bring a cozy aroma, making your cake feel even more like a warm hug on a plate.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk along with dairy-free butter, ensuring anyone can enjoy this sweet treat! The cake will still retain its lightness and fluffy texture.
- Coconut Surprise: Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flair that will transport you to a sunny beach with every bite. The chewy texture adds another layer of delight!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your ideal version of this cherished cake!
Old Fashioned Sugar Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best egg whites for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh egg whites are essential for achieving the light, fluffy texture that defines Old Fashioned Sugar Cake. When shopping, choose large eggs and look for those that are clean and uncracked. If you’re separating the eggs at home, make sure there are no yolks in the whites, as even a tiny bit of yolk can hinder the whipping process.
How should I store leftover Old Fashioned Sugar Cake?
You’ll want to keep your delightful cake fresh for as long as possible! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months when frozen.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Sugar Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cake to cool completely first. Then, slice it into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its delightful texture.
What should I do if my Old Fashioned Sugar Cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your cake comes out flat, it could be due to old baking powder—the culprit in many baking woes! Be sure to check that your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents won’t work effectively. Also, ensure you’ve adequately whipped your egg whites to soft peaks before folding them into the batter. This is crucial for lightness!
Is Old Fashioned Sugar Cake safe for people with dietary allergies?
While this cake is free from common allergens like nuts and dairy (if using vegetable shortening), it does contain eggs and gluten. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free flour—though keep in mind it might yield different results. For those with egg allergies, this recipe isn’t suitable since the egg whites are essential for structure.
Delightful Old Fashioned Sugar Cake Made in a Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the vegetable shortening and milk for about 3 minutes until it resembles small curd cottage cheese. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mix in three additions, blending well after each addition.
- Gently fold in the egg whites with a spatula until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured 10-inch cast iron skillet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the skillet on a wire rack for at least 45 minutes before serving. Dust with confectioner's sugar if desired.