Indulge in a slice of Pennsylvania Dutch tradition with this delightful Funny Cake. A unique combination of rich chocolate and tender cake, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be enjoying a slice of nostalgia in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 1/4 cup baking cocoa
- 3/4 cups milk, divided
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie shell
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/8 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preparing the Chocolate Sauce:
- Mix Cocoa and Sugar:
- In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar with the baking cocoa.
- Add Milk:
- Gradually stir in 1/2 cup of milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Preparing the Pie Crust:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the pie shell package.
- Place Pie Shell:
- Place the unbaked pie shell into a 9-inch pie plate or baking dish.
Making the Cake Batter:
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add the egg, softened unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and remaining 1/4 cup of milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Assembling the Cake:
- Layer Ingredients:
- Pour the prepared chocolate sauce into the bottom of the unbaked pie shell, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
- Add Cake Batter:
- Carefully pour the cake batter over the chocolate sauce layer, spreading it evenly to cover the sauce.
Baking:
- Bake in Oven:
- Place the assembled Funny Cake into the preheated oven and bake according to the instructions on the pie shell package, or until the cake is golden brown and set.
- Check for Doneness:
- To check 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 ready.
Serving:
- Cool and Slice:
- Allow the Funny Cake to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
- Store Leftovers:
- Store any leftover Funny Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Pie Shell Variation: If you prefer a homemade pie crust, feel free to use your favorite recipe instead of a store-bought pie shell.
- Chocolate Sauce Intensity: Adjust the richness of the chocolate sauce to your liking by adding more or less sugar and cocoa.
- Serve with Toppings: Enhance the flavor of the Funny Cake by serving it with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa instead of regular cocoa? A: Yes, Dutch-processed cocoa can be used interchangeably with regular cocoa in this recipe without affecting the final result.
Q: Can I make this Funny Cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the Funny Cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply bake it according to the instructions when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Funny Cake? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Funny Cake for up to 1 month. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or serving.
Q: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the cake batter? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or chocolate chips to the cake batter for added texture and flavor.
With its rich chocolate sauce and tender cake layer, Pennsylvania Dutch Funny Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or chilled from the refrigerator, this comforting treat is sure to bring a smile to your face with every bite. Share the love and tradition of this classic recipe with family and friends for a truly memorable dessert experience
