We’ve always been fans of versatile desserts that bring people together, and our Pareve Cake Recipe is a standout favorite. Rooted in Jewish kosher traditions, Pareve means it’s dairy-free and meat-free, so you can enjoy it with any meal without dietary worries.
This simple yet delicious cake proves that flavor doesn’t have to compromise on restrictions. Whether you’re observing kosher laws or seeking a plant-based treat, we’ll guide you through an easy bake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
As we dive into creating our flavorful Pareve Cake, a dairy-free and meat-free delight perfect for kosher and plant-based lifestyles, let’s gather the key ingredients. We organize them in the order they are typically used, with specific prep notes for accuracy and ease.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure a light, airy texture that forms the base of our Pareve Cake.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Measured precisely for a balanced sweetness that enhances the cake’s moist crumb without overpowering other flavors.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Fresh and leveled to provide the essential lift, guaranteeing our cake rises perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Added to amplify the flavors, drawing out the subtle notes in this versatile treat.
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Neutral in taste and used at room temperature for even mixing, replacing butter to keep our Pareve Cake dairy-free.
- 4 large eggs: Lightly beaten before adding, to incorporate air and create a rich, cohesive batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure and high-quality for a warm, aromatic essence that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 cup water or plant-based milk alternative: Room temperature to maintain batter consistency, ensuring our cake stays moist and inclusive.
This selection keeps our Pareve Cake simple yet delicious, focusing on everyday items that deliver impressive results every time.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into mixing our carefully selected ingredients for this Pareve Cake, let’s ensure we have the right tools on hand. As baking experts, we know that the proper equipment can make all the difference in achieving a moist, evenly baked result that adheres to kosher standards.
To prepare this recipe efficiently, gather the following essential items. We’ve organized them by their role in the baking process for smooth workflow:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized bowls—one for dry ingredients like flour and sugar, and another for wet ingredients such as oil and eggs—to keep everything organized and prevent cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of dry measuring cups (for flour and sugar), liquid measuring cups (for oil or water), and spoons (for precise measurements of baking powder and vanilla extract) to ensure accuracy in our Pareve Cake.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: A sturdy whisk for hand-mixing to incorporate air into the batter, or an electric mixer for quicker blending, guaranteeing a light and fluffy texture.
- Baking Pan: A 9-inch round cake pan, preferably non-stick or lined with parchment paper, to bake our Pareve Cake evenly and achieve that perfect golden finish.
- Spatula: A silicone spatula for gently folding ingredients and scraping bowl sides, helping us maintain the batter’s integrity without overmixing.
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 350°F, as it’s the key to even baking and developing the cake’s delightful aroma and flavor.
- Cooling Rack: An optional but recommended wire rack for cooling the cake post-bake, allowing air circulation to prevent sogginess and ensure optimal texture.
With these tools ready, we’re set to transition seamlessly into the preparation steps, making our Pareve Cake baking experience both straightforward and enjoyable.
Instructions
With our ingredients measured and equipment at hand, let’s walk through the steps to create our moist and flavorful Pareve Cake, ensuring a seamless baking process that delivers exceptional results every time.
Prep
Before we begin mixing, we’ll prepare our workspace and ingredients to set the stage for a smooth bake. Start by preheating the oven to 350°F for even heating, which helps achieve a golden crust and tender crumb. Grease a 9-inch round baking pan with a light coating of vegetable oil or a non-stick spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Next, in one medium-sized mixing bowl, sift 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt to remove lumps and aerate the dry ingredients for better texture. In the second mixing bowl, whisk together the wet components: ½ cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of water or plant-based milk until well combined, creating a smooth mixture that promises a rich, dairy-free moisture.
Mix the Batter
Now that our ingredients are prepped, we’ll combine them to form a luscious batter that captures the essence of our Pareve Cake. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the sifted dry ingredients, then use a whisk or electric mixer on low speed to gently blend until just incorporated—overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so aim for a few lumps for optimal lightness.
Once blended, fold in any optional add-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips using a silicone spatula for even distribution without deflating the batter. At this stage, the mixture should have a velvety consistency with a subtle sweetness from the vanilla, promising a cake that’s irresistibly aromatic and perfectly balanced for kosher and plant-based diets.
Bake
With the batter ready, it’s time to bake our Pareve Cake to golden perfection. Pour the batter into the prepared 9-inch pan, smoothing the top with the spatula for an even rise. Place the pan in the preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—monitor closely after 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
As it bakes, the cake will fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting scent of vanilla and fresh-baked goodness, developing a lightly crisp exterior while the inside stays moist and fluffy, embodying the simple yet impressive appeal of this dairy-free treat.
Cool
After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes to set its structure and enhance the flavors. Then, carefully invert the cake onto the rack to cool completely for another 30 to 45 minutes, allowing the texture to firm up without becoming dry.
This cooling process ensures the cake slices cleanly and retains its tender crumb, making it ideal for serving as a versatile dessert that aligns with kosher traditions and delights any gathering.
Make-Ahead and Storage
After cooling our Pareve Cake completely on the wire rack as outlined in the previous steps, we can maximize its convenience by preparing it ahead or storing it properly. This ensures the cake remains moist, flavorful, and adheres to kosher standards without compromising quality.
Making Ahead
We often bake this Pareve Cake a day or two in advance to let the flavors meld and simplify meal planning. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Prepare the batter and bake as directed: Complete the baking process then cool the cake fully to room temperature.
- Wrap for freshness: Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- Refrigerate or freeze immediately: For short-term ahead preparation, place the wrapped cake in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. For longer storage, transfer it to the freezer where it can last up to 3 months.
This method allows us to enjoy a freshly baked taste even when time is limited, making our Pareve Cake perfect for gatherings or busy weeks.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the tender crumb and delightful aroma of our Pareve Cake. Store it based on your needs while keeping it dairy-free and ready to serve.
- At room temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container on the counter for up to 2 days in a cool, dry environment to preserve its texture.
- In the refrigerator: For extended freshness, store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This is ideal for warmer climates or when you want to extend shelf life.
- In the freezer: Wrap tightly and place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain moisture.
To help you track storage durations effectively, we’ve compiled the following table:
| Storage Method | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Short-term, daily use |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Moderate-term, freshness |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Long-term, events ahead |
By following these guidelines, we ensure our Pareve Cake stays delicious and ready whenever you need it.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Pareve Cake recipe to bring joy and simplicity to your kitchen. It’s more than just a treat; it’s a way to gather friends and family without dietary worries.
Our goal was to make baking accessible and fun while staying true to kosher values. Try it out and see how it becomes a staple in your home—we’re confident it’ll exceed your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Pareve Cake?
A Pareve Cake is a dairy-free and meat-free dessert, perfect for kosher diets. It uses ingredients that align with Jewish dietary laws, making it versatile for any meal. This recipe offers a simple, delicious option that’s also great for plant-based eaters, bringing people together with its flavorful appeal.
What ingredients are needed for this Pareve Cake Recipe?
You’ll need dry ingredients like all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, plus wet ones such as vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and water or plant-based milk. These everyday items ensure a moist, tasty cake while keeping it dairy-free and kosher-friendly.
What equipment is required to bake a Pareve Cake?
Essential tools include two mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk or mixer, a 9-inch baking pan, a silicone spatula, and a preheated oven at 350°F. A cooling rack is optional but helps achieve even baking and a perfect texture for this kosher recipe.
How do I make a Pareve Cake step by step?
Start by preheating your oven and greasing the pan. Sift dry ingredients together, whisk wet ones until smooth, then combine them to form batter. Fold in optional add-ins like nuts. Pour into the pan and bake for about 30-40 minutes until golden. Cool in the pan before transferring to a rack.
How long does it take to bake and cool the Pareve Cake?
Baking typically takes 30-40 minutes at 350°F. Let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a rack for complete cooling, which may take 1-2 hours. This ensures a tender crumb and makes slicing easy for your kosher-friendly treat.
Can I add variations to the Pareve Cake Recipe?
Yes, you can fold in extras like nuts, chocolate chips, or fruits for added flavor. Keep it dairy-free by sticking to the original ingredients, ensuring it remains kosher. These simple tweaks enhance taste without complicating the easy baking process.
How should I store the Pareve Cake for later use?
Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic or foil. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving to maintain moisture and flavor for your dairy-free delight.