This is such a wonderful cake. 

I’m not sure of the history (Wikipedia and Google both failed me in this department.)

I may do some more research – but that will come later- if at all.

It is moist and and toothsome, yet not dense, and the flavor is subtle, yet

enticing.  And I used a decorative sunflower pan to bake in and the

end result was very pleasing.

Pleasing.  That is the word for this cake.  Pleasing to the eye-

pleasing to the palate- and not too much work.

I gave this cake to friends.

And kept this one for us!

Because I decorated the top with fresh sugared orange peel, you need to go

here for instructions to make your own ,first.

And then  you need to make some burnt sugar syrup.

Put 3/4 cup sugar in heavy skillet and brown it on medium high until it is dark, watch

it- you really don’t want it to burn.  Then add 1/2 cup boiling water, stir well and

continue cooking until it is reduced and thick as molasses.

I made a larger amount and kept it in a bottle and use it when I

WANT this cake.  It is a beautiful amber color.

And now for the cake!

Ingredients:

3 cups AP/plain flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

3/4 cup butter- softened to room temp.

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 eggs,divided

1/2 cup burnt sugar syrup

1 tsp vanilla

1 cup water

3/4 cup milk

Method:

Sift together flour, baking powder and salt into a bowl and set aside.

Cream butter and sugar , using mixer until light and fluffy.

Separate eggs and beat whites until peaks form- set aside..)

Add egg yolks to butter and sugar,beat until smooth and

then add burnt sugar, vanilla and water.

Add flour mixture and beat until smooth, add milk to make it

into a pourable batter.  Fold in egg whites.

Pour into pans- it will make 18-24 cupcakes or 2 8 inch cake pans.

Bake at 350 F for 20 to 25 minutes.

To make icing, make a buttercream icing and add 3 TBS burnt sugar

syrup.  ( 1/2 cup soft butter, 1 cup icing sugar, vanilla and burnt sugar syrup,

and 3 TBS milk or hot water, beaten together)

Ice cake and add strips or bits of orange peel.