Description
Experience the deep, nutty essence of browned butter in this classic Southern cake that features a tender crumb and a signature crackly sugar crust. Perfectly balanced with rich sour cream and high-quality vanilla, it is a sophisticated yet comforting treat for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 290g unsalted butter (to be reduced to 226g browned butter)
- 220g brown sugar, tightly packed
- 250g cake flour
- 240g sour cream
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (or 1 fresh vanilla bean)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat for about 7 minutes until it smells nutty and golden bits form; immediately transfer 226g of the liquid and solids to a large mixing bowl.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or grease and flour.
- Whisk the sea salt, vanilla, and brown sugar into the warm butter for 60 seconds until the sugar begins to dissolve.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, whisking for a full minute after each addition until the batter becomes thick, pale, and shiny.
- Sift the cake flour, baking powder, and baking soda over the batter and whisk gently until about half-incorporated.
- Add the sour cream and whisk until just smooth, ensuring no white streaks remain without over-mixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the surface.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until a tester comes out clean, then cool in the pan for 20 minutes before moving to a wire rack.
Notes
To ensure a perfect emulsion, it is critical that your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature so they do not cause the browned butter to clump. If you are using a kitchen scale, remember to weigh the butter after browning to hit the exact 226g mark, as the water evaporation during the browning process can vary.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American