Bake No Hana, also known as ‘Japanese Sweet Potato Cake’, is a delightful treat that celebrates the rich flavors of sweet potatoes. Perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert, this recipe brings a taste of Japan to your kitchen.
The texture of Bake No Hana is moist and fluffy, with a natural sweetness that comes from the sweet potatoes. With each bite, you’ll experience a subtle nuttiness and a satisfying depth of flavor, making it a unique addition to any dessert table.
This recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, allowing you to create a mouth-watering cake without the fuss. It’s a wonderful way to impress your friends and family with a homemade treat that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
Deliciously Sweet Bake No Hana
Bake No Hana, known as Japanese Sweet Potato Cake, delivers an exceptional balance of flavors and textures. This treat stands out with its fluffy and moist interior, primarily crafted from steamed sweet potatoes.
The golden-brown crust wraps around a tender crumb, offering a unique blend of sweetness and earthiness that is simply delightful.
This cake shines not only in taste but also in presentation. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch that enhances its visual appeal, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy tea time.
Ingredients Overview
The ingredients for Bake No Hana are straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
You will need medium sweet potatoes, all-purpose flour, and a handful of other common ingredients like sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. These elements combine seamlessly to create a cake that is both satisfying and delicious.
Selecting high-quality sweet potatoes is key, as they impart a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor to the cake. Their creamy texture contributes to the overall moistness of the final product.
Preparation Steps
Begin the process by steaming the sweet potatoes until they are tender and easy to mash. This step is crucial as it lays the foundation for the cake’s rich flavor and texture.
Once cooled, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth, ensuring that no lumps remain for an even consistency.
Next, combine the dry and wet ingredients separately before bringing them together. Mixing the ingredients carefully will prevent overmixing, which can affect the cake’s fluffiness.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch round cake pan by greasing it well. Pour the batter into the pan and spread it evenly to promote uniform baking.
Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating that the cake is done. This step is vital for achieving that perfect bake.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling period helps maintain its structure and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooled, dust the Bake No Hana lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Serve it on a pristine white plate, accompanied by a delicate cup of green tea. This combination not only enhances the flavors but also creates a serene dining experience reminiscent of traditional Japanese tea gatherings.
Slice the cake to reveal its soft texture, inviting your guests to indulge in its warmth and sweetness. This presentation captures the essence of a delightful dessert that is sure to impress.
A Taste of Tradition
Bake No Hana is more than just a cake; it embodies a piece of Japanese culinary tradition.
Its preparation reflects thoughtful techniques that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients. This cake is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting afternoon snack.
Each bite of Bake No Hana transports you to a serene setting, making it not just a dessert but also a delightful experience steeped in culture and warmth.
Deliciously Sweet Bake No Hana
Bake No Hana is a soft and fluffy cake made primarily from steamed sweet potatoes, sugar, and flour. It has a lovely golden-brown crust and a tender crumb, providing a perfect balance between sweetness and earthiness.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 400g)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Steam the sweet potatoes until tender, about 20-30 minutes. Allow them to cool, then peel and mash until smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch round cake pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g