We’ve always been fascinated by the rebellious spirit of moonshine, that iconic American libation born from hidden stills in the Appalachian hills. Now we’re transforming it into a decadent Moonshine Cake that’s equal parts fun and flavorful, perfect for adding a twist to your baking adventures.
This recipe captures the essence of tradition with a modern kick, blending rich flavors that make it a standout dessert. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, our Moonshine Cake promises to impress with its moist texture and subtle buzz.
Join us as we dive into this easy-to-follow guide that’ll have you whipping up a batch in no time.
Ingredients
In our Moonshine Cake recipe, we gather simple yet flavorful ingredients that capture the spirited essence of Appalachian traditions. We’ve organized this list in the order they are typically used, with prep notes for precision.
For the Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Sifted to ensure a light and airy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – For that perfect sweetness that balances the bold flavors.
- 3 large eggs – Beaten lightly before adding to incorporate air and moisture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1/2 cup moonshine – Our star ingredient, use a high-quality variety for a subtle kick; if substituting, opt for whiskey.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Fresh to help the cake rise evenly.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, spicy note that evokes the hills.
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Sifted to avoid lumps for a smooth finish.
- 2 tablespoons moonshine – Warm slightly to enhance the glaze’s pourability and flavor infusion.
- 1 tablespoon milk – Added gradually to achieve the desired consistency.
This selection ensures our cake is moist, flavorful, and ready for your next gathering. Remember, accurate measurements are key to our reliable results.
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients for the Moonshine Cake, let’s equip ourselves with the essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process. We recommend using reliable, standard kitchen items to achieve that perfect, moist texture and rich flavor.
To prepare and bake this cake effectively, here’s a list of the key equipment:
- Mixing Bowls: We need at least two medium-sized bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet—to keep everything organized and prevent cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our Moonshine Cake, so use a set of dry measuring cups (for flour and sugar) and liquid measuring cups (for moonshine and milk), along with precise spoons for smaller quantities.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer works best for creaming butter and sugar, but a sturdy whisk can substitute if we’re aiming for a more traditional approach.
- Baking Pan: Opt for a 9-inch bundt pan or round cake pan to give our Moonshine Cake its signature shape and even baking.
- Oven: Preheat to the exact temperature specified in the recipe—typically around 350°F—to ensure the cake bakes evenly and develops a golden crust.
- Spatula: A rubber or silicone spatula is essential for folding ingredients and scraping batter from the bowl without introducing air bubbles.
- Cooling Rack: This allows our freshly baked Moonshine Cake to cool evenly, preventing sogginess and maintaining its fluffy interior.
- Saucepan: If we’re preparing a warm glaze, a small saucepan helps in gently heating the moonshine and sugar mixture for a smooth finish.
By having these tools ready, we set the stage for an effortless transition into the preparation steps, ensuring our Moonshine Cake turns out as flavorful and impressive as promised.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential equipment, let’s create our flavorful Moonshine Cake step by step. We ensure each phase delivers a moist, aromatic dessert infused with the spirited essence of moonshine.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin mixing, we organize and prep our ingredients for efficiency. Start by measuring out 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (softened to room temperature), 1/2 cup of moonshine, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for the batter. For the glaze, measure 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of moonshine, and 1 tablespoon of milk.
- Flour and dry ingredients: Sift the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon together in a mixing bowl to remove lumps and blend flavors evenly.
- Wet ingredients: Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and soften the butter by letting it sit or microwaving for 10-15 seconds to achieve a creamy texture that incorporates smoothly.
- Moonshine: Pour the moonshine into a small container to ensure accurate addition without spillage, allowing its bold, Appalachian-inspired aroma to enhance our cake’s character.
This preparation sets the stage for a seamless baking process, guaranteeing our cake’s rich, moist crumb.
Mix the Batter
With ingredients prepped, we mix the batter to create a smooth, homogenous mixture that captures the cake’s signature depth. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy, developing a base that promises a tender texture.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate air and ensure a cohesive batter.
- Gradually pour in the moonshine while mixing on low speed, letting its warm, spirited notes infuse the mixture for an irresistible flavor.
- Fold in the sifted flour mixture using a spatula, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and maintain a light, airy consistency.
As we blend, the batter transforms into a glossy, fragrant blend with hints of cinnamon and moonshine, ready for the oven to work its magic.
Bake the Cake
Now we transfer the batter to the oven, where heat transforms it into a golden, irresistible cake. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray for even release.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, allowing the cake to rise and develop a moist, springy interior.
- Monitor the baking process closely; the cake should emit a fragrant, moonshine-infused aroma and turn a deep golden brown on top.
For baking times based on common variables, refer to the table below:
| Oven Temperature (°F) | Baking Time (minutes) | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 350 | 30-35 | Moist, evenly baked cake |
| 325 (for darker pans) | 35-40 | Deeper flavor profile |
This step locks in the cake’s bold flavors, setting us up for a cooling phase.
Cool and Frost
Once baked, we cool the cake to preserve its structure before adding the glossy glaze for a finishing touch. Remove the pan from the oven and let it rest on a cooling rack for 10 minutes, allowing the cake to set and release steam for an optimal texture.
- After initial cooling, invert the cake onto the rack and cool completely for another 20-30 minutes until it reaches room temperature, preventing the glaze from melting unevenly.
- For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, moonshine, and milk in a saucepan over low heat until smooth and pourable, creating a shiny coating that enhances the cake’s moisture and spirit.
Drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled cake, letting it cascade down the sides for a visually appealing finish that amplifies the moonshine‘s bold taste and leaves a tantalizing sheen.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Moonshine Cake moist and flavorful, we recommend planning ahead for effortless preparation and proper storage. This ensures the cake retains its rich, moonshine-infused taste and tender texture, perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying later.
Make-Ahead Options
We love making our Moonshine Cake in advance to save time without sacrificing quality. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Prepare the batter early: Mix the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator to preserve freshness, then let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors—like the warm cinnamon and bold moonshine—to meld even more.
- Bake the cake ahead: Fully bake the cake and let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it like this for up to 2 days at room temperature or refrigerate it for up to 5 days before adding the glaze. Remember, glazing right before serving keeps the glossy finish shiny and prevents sogginess.
- Freeze for longer storage: If you’re planning further ahead, bake and cool the cake, then freeze it unglazed. Wrap it securely in freezer-safe wrap and place it in a resealable bag to avoid freezer burn.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage helps maintain the cake’s signature moisture and Appalachian-inspired flavors. We suggest these methods based on your needs:
- At room temperature: Store the fully cooled, glazed cake in an airtight container. It stays fresh for 1-2 days, ideal for quick enjoyment.
- In the refrigerator: For longer shelf life, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container to lock in moisture. It keeps for 3-5 days, but we advise bringing it to room temperature before serving to enhance its soft texture and moonshine aroma.
- In the freezer: Freeze slices or the whole cake (unglazed for best results) in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and glaze fresh for optimal taste.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1-2 days | Short-term enjoyment |
| Refrigerator | 3-5 days | Extended freshness |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Long-term make-ahead |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Moonshine Cake recipe with you, blending Appalachian flavors into a simple yet unforgettable treat. It’s more than just a dessert—it’s a way to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.
We’re confident you’ll find it easy to whip up and even easier to savor. Give it a try and let its rich, moist layers become a staple in your baking adventures. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Moonshine Cake?
Moonshine Cake is a flavorful dessert inspired by Appalachian traditions, featuring a moist, rich cake infused with moonshine for a rebellious twist. It’s perfect for gatherings or personal treats, blending simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and cinnamon with a glossy glaze for added moisture and appeal.
What ingredients are needed for Moonshine Cake?
The main ingredients include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, unsalted butter, moonshine, baking powder, and ground cinnamon for the batter. For the glaze, you’ll need powdered sugar, moonshine, and milk. Accurate measurements ensure a moist, flavorful result, reflecting traditional Appalachian flavors.
What equipment is required to make Moonshine Cake?
You’ll need basic kitchen tools like mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or hand whisk, a baking pan, an oven, a spatula, a cooling rack, and a saucepan for the glaze. These items help create a smooth baking process and a professional finish.
How do I prepare Moonshine Cake?
Start by measuring and sifting dry ingredients, then mix with wet ones like eggs, butter, and moonshine to form a smooth batter. Pour into a greased pan and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until golden. Cool the cake, then drizzle a warm glaze made from powdered sugar, moonshine, and milk for enhanced flavor and moisture.
Can I make Moonshine Cake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, or bake the cake and store it wrapped for up to 5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the unglazed cake. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful, making it ideal for planning ahead.
How should I store Moonshine Cake?
Store the cooled cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain moisture. For longer preservation, freeze the unglazed cake for up to 3 months; thaw and glaze before serving to preserve its tender texture and moonshine-infused taste.