Are you on the hunt for a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that combines tartness and sweetness in perfect harmony? Look no further than the Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake. This recipe, inspired by the beloved Smitten Kitchen blog, has become a favorite among home bakers for its simplicity and irresistible flavor. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake is sure to impress. With its tender crumb and juicy rhubarb topping, it’s a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
The Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of seasonal produce and the joy of baking from scratch. Rhubarb, with its unique tangy flavor, is the star of this recipe. Paired with a buttery cake base, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. It’s a versatile treat that works equally well as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast (we won’t tell!).
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about this iconic recipe. From its origins to step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and variations to suit your taste, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of Smitten Kitchen or new to the world of rhubarb baking, this guide will ensure your cake turns out perfect every time.
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Table of Contents
Introduction to Smitten Kitchen
Smitten Kitchen, founded by Deb Perelman, is a renowned food blog that has captured the hearts of home cooks worldwide. Known for its approachable recipes and stunning photography, Smitten Kitchen has become a go-to resource for anyone looking to elevate their cooking and baking skills. Deb’s philosophy revolves around creating recipes that are both delicious and achievable, even for those with limited kitchen experience.
One of the standout recipes from Smitten Kitchen is the Rhubarb Snacking Cake. This dessert exemplifies Deb’s knack for transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Her recipes are often inspired by seasonal produce, and this cake is a perfect example of how rhubarb, a humble yet flavorful ingredient, can shine in a dessert.
Over the years, Smitten Kitchen has built a reputation for trustworthiness and expertise in the culinary world. Deb’s meticulous testing and attention to detail ensure that her recipes are reliable and consistently deliver great results. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, her blog is a treasure trove of culinary inspiration.
What is Rhubarb Snacking Cake?
The Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake is a single-layer cake that combines a buttery, vanilla-infused batter with a generous topping of fresh rhubarb. The rhubarb softens and caramelizes as it bakes, creating a luscious, jammy layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender cake beneath. It’s called a “snacking cake” because it’s simple, unfussy, and perfect for enjoying anytime—whether as a mid-afternoon treat or an after-dinner dessert.
Rhubarb, the key ingredient in this cake, is a vegetable often used in desserts due to its tart flavor. Its vibrant red stalks add a pop of color to the cake, while its natural acidity balances the sweetness of the batter. This combination makes the cake both refreshing and indulgent, appealing to a wide range of palates.
What sets this cake apart is its versatility. It can be served warm or at room temperature, paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoyed plain. Its simplicity and adaptability have made it a beloved recipe among home bakers and food enthusiasts alike.
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Ingredients You Need
Creating the Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake is straightforward, thanks to its minimal list of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
Topping
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb (about 3-4 stalks)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
These ingredients are pantry staples for most bakers, making this recipe accessible and convenient. The combination of melted butter and yogurt ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the rhubarb adds a burst of tangy flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Follow these simple steps to bake the perfect Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth. Stir in the yogurt or sour cream.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Step 5: Add Rhubarb
Fold in the chopped rhubarb, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Step 6: Bake
Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar over the top of the batter. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Baking Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure your Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Rhubarb: Fresh, firm rhubarb stalks yield the best results. Avoid using rhubarb that looks wilted or dry.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Adjust Sugar: If your rhubarb is particularly tart, you can increase the sugar slightly to balance the flavor.
- Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
- Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations and Customizations
While the classic Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake is delightful on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste:
Add Nuts or Seeds
For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts on top of the cake before baking. You can also add a tablespoon of chia or flax seeds to the batter for a nutritional boost.
Incorporate Spices
Enhance the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the batter. These spices pair beautifully with rhubarb’s tartness.
Experiment with Fruit
If rhubarb isn’t available, try substituting it with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Each fruit will bring its own unique twist to the cake.
Make It Gluten-Free
Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your baked goods is essential, especially if you’re mindful of your diet. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 9 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Protein | 3g |
These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Why This Cake is a Favorite
The Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake has earned its place as a favorite among bakers for several reasons:
- Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses basic pantry staples, making it accessible to everyone.
- Seasonal Appeal: Rhubarb is a quintessential spring ingredient, and this cake celebrates its unique flavor.
- Versatility: Whether served as a snack, dessert, or breakfast, this cake fits seamlessly into any occasion.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of tart rhubarb and sweet, buttery cake creates a comforting and nostalgic taste experience.
Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels.
Serving Suggestions
While the Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake is delightful on its own, here are some creative ways to serve it:
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a touch of luxury.
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a decadent treat.
- For Breakfast: Pair a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day.
- At Gatherings: Bring this cake to potlucks or family gatherings—it’s sure to be a hit.
Conclusion
The Smitten Kitchen Rhubarb Snacking Cake is a testament to the beauty of simple, seasonal baking. With its tender crumb, tangy rhubarb topping, and ease of preparation, it’s no wonder this recipe has captured the hearts of so many. Whether you’re a fan of Smitten
