Basil Berry Cake
User Reviews
5
Basil Berry Cake
Description
The Basil Berry Cake starts by blending granulated sugar with fresh basil leaves and lemon zest until the herbs are finely integrated, imparting a gentle herbal aroma and a citrus brightness. This infused sugar is then mixed with softened butter, baking powder, salt, eggs, and vanilla to form a smooth batter. The flour is folded in carefully to preserve a tender crumb. A 9-inch springform pan holds the batter, spread thinly before sprinkling and pressing mixed berries on top.
Baking at 350°F for around 35 minutes sets the cake around the berries, which add vibrant color, moisture, and bursts of flavor ranging from sweet to tart, depending on berry varieties. The top is finished with a sprinkle of the basil-infused sugar, giving a subtle crunch and additional flavor.
This cake pairs with tea or can be served as a light dessert highlighting seasonal berries and fresh herbs. The combination makes it suitable for spring or summer occasions where fresh, bright flavors are appreciated.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 12 basil leaves
- lemon zest of 1
- 1/2 cup butter 1 stick, 113g, softened
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 egg large
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries; if using strawberries, cut into smaller chunks)
- ¼ cup apricot jam
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round springform pan. Cut a circle of parchment paper that matches the bottom of the pan, and place in the pan.
- In a food processor, add the sugar, basil leaves, and lemon zest. Turn on the food processor and continue to run until the basil and lemon zest is fully incorporated with the sugar, and there are no visible leaf pieces.
- Set aside 1 tablespoon of the sugar, and add the rest to the bowl of a mixer, along with the softened butter, baking powder, and salt. Beat until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating each time until thoroughly combined. Beat in the vanilla.
- Stir in the flour on low speed, being careful not to overmix. You will end up with a smooth, thick batter. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan––it will be a fairly thin layer. Sprinkle the berries over the cake, and lightly press into the batter. Sprinkle the cake with the remaining sugar.
- Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Remove from the oven, and allow to cool slightly.
- While the cake is cooling, warm up the apricot jam in the microwave or in a small saucepan until warm. Brush the top of the cake with the warm jam. Serve warm or at room temperature––either on its own, or with whipped cream and fresh berries.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 270 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 270kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 36g | 12% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 71mg | 24% |
| Sodium | 191mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 103mg | 2% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 22g | 44% |
| Vitamin A | 465IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 1.1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 37mg | 4% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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