Anne of Cleves Cake Recipe

Ah, Anne of Cleves Cake, a treat as intriguing as its namesake—Anne of Cleves, Henry VIII’s fourth wife, often known more for her brief marriage than her influence. But today, let’s bring her namesake cake into the limelight it deserves. This dessert, with its rich, multi-layered history and even richer flavors, is a surefire way to impress at any gathering. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive right into making the most delicious Anne of Cleves Cake you’ve ever tasted!

Anne of Cleves Cake Recipe Overview

• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: British
• Total Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before we begin, make sure you have the following items ready:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Cooling rack
• Serrated knife
• Icing spatula

Ingredients

Fact: Did you know Anne of Cleves is thought to have introduced this cake to the English court? It’s a fitting tribute to her German heritage, combining spices typically found in German desserts.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Cake Pans

• Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lining the bottoms with parchment paper ensures the cakes come out perfectly.

A properly greased pan can make or break your cake’s presentation.

Step 2 – Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add eggs, one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
• Beat in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Creaming butter and sugar properly introduces air into your batter, making for a lighter cake.

Step 3 – Combine Dry Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

Alternating dry and wet ingredients prevents the batter from becoming too stiff or too runny, promoting an even texture.

Step 4 – Bake

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Always test for doneness with a toothpick. Overbaked cake loses that delightful moistness.

Step 5 – Assemble and Serve

• Once cool, level the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife if necessary.
• Stack the cakes with your choice of frosting between the layers and on the outside.
• Dust the top with powdered sugar and a hint of cinnamon before serving.

Layering your cake with precision ensures each bite is as good as the last.

Additional Tips

• For a moister cake, brush each layer with simple syrup before assembling.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Pairing Suggestions

The spice-infused flavor of Anne of Cleves Cake pairs wonderfully with:

• A dollop of whipped cream
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• A cup of strong, hot coffee

Nutritional Information

Note: These values are approximate; actual nutritional content may vary slightly.

Dietary Information

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

FAQs about Anne of Cleves Cake

What makes Anne of Cleves Cake unique?

Anne of Cleves Cake combines traditional British baking techniques with the rich, spicy flavors typical of German cuisine, reflecting the cultural heritage of Anne herself.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely, this cake stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

How do I ensure my cake is moist?

Don’t overmix the batter, and be sure to check for doneness with a toothpick rather than timing alone. Overbaking is a common culprit for dry cakes.

What frosting would you recommend for Anne of Cleves Cake?

A simple vanilla buttercream or cream cheese frosting complements the spice flavors beautifully.

Can I add nuts or fruit to the recipe?

Yes, adding chopped nuts or raisins can add a lovely texture and flavor contrast to the cake.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a suitable plant milk.

What’s the best way to serve Anne of Cleves Cake?

Serve it slightly warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of whipped cream for a truly decadent dessert experience.

Conclusion

There you have it, a cake as regal and fascinating as Anne of Cleves herself. Whether you’re hosting a grand event or just fancy a sophisticated sweet treat, this cake is sure to be a showstopper. So why not give it a try and see just how delicious history can taste?

Remember, I’d love to hear how your Anne of Cleves Cake turns out, so don’t hesitate to leave comments, questions, or feedback below. Cheers to a fabulous baking adventure!

Check out some more delicious dessert recipes:

• Edgars Strawberry Cake Recipe
• Bala Baiana Recipe
• Guyanese Pine Tart Recipe
• Patti LaBelle Banana Pudding Recipe
• Costco Fruitcake Recipe
• Cici’s Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Anne of Cleves Cake Recipe

Discover the perfect Anne of Cleves Cake recipe, a rich, spiced delight that's easy to make and utterly delicious.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine British

Servings 12

Calories 530 kcal

Equipment

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Cooling rack
• Serrated knife
• Icing spatula

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup 2 sticks Unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups Granulated sugar
• 4 large Eggs
• 3 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 tsp Baking powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Milk
• 2 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp Lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg
• For dusting Powdered sugar

Instructions

 

Step 1 – Prepare the Cake Pans

• Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lining the bottoms with parchment paper ensures the cakes come out perfectly.
• A properly greased pan can make or break your cake’s presentation.

Step 2 – Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add eggs, one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
• Beat in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
• Creaming butter and sugar properly introduces air into your batter, making for a lighter cake.

Step 3 – Combine Dry Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
• Alternating dry and wet ingredients prevents the batter from becoming too stiff or too runny, promoting an even texture.

Step 4 – Bake

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
• Always test for doneness with a toothpick. Overbaked cake loses that delightful moistness.

Step 5 – Assemble and Serve

• Once cool, level the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife if necessary.
• Stack the cakes with your choice of frosting between the layers and on the outside.
• Dust the top with powdered sugar and a hint of cinnamon before serving.
• Layering your cake with precision ensures each bite is as good as the last.

Notes

• For a moister cake, brush each layer with simple syrup before assembling.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Keyword Anne of Cleves Cake Recipe