CASTELLA CAKE

Castella Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup bread flour (120g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 7 large eggs
• 1/4 cup honey (60ml)
• 3 tablespoons warm milk (45ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan:

• Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C).
• Line a 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper. Make sure the paper extends above the edges of the pan for easy removal later.

1. Mix Honey and Milk:

• In a small bowl, mix the honey and warm milk until well combined. Set aside.

1. Prepare the Flour:

• Sift the bread flour and salt together. This will help aerate the flour and remove any lumps.

1. Beat the Eggs:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer at high speed until they become pale and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
• Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat the mixture. Beat until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture has thickened (another 5 minutes).

1. Incorporate the Honey Mixture:

• Add the honey and milk mixture to the egg mixture and beat until just combined.

1. Add the Flour:

• Sift the flour mixture over the egg mixture in three batches. Gently fold each batch in using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter.

1. Add Vanilla (optional):

• If using, add the vanilla extract and gently fold it into the batter.

1. Bake the Cake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any large air bubbles.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

1. Cool the Cake:

• Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper.
• Cool the cake on a wire rack. For the best flavor and texture, wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and let it rest overnight at room temperature before slicing.

1. Serve:

• Slice the cake into thick pieces and enjoy! Castella cake is best served slightly warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Castella cake!