A Golden Sugar Crusted Vanilla Loaf Cake is a simple yet elegant bake that combines the richness of butter and vanilla with a delightful sugary crust on top. This loaf is moist, tender, and sweet with a golden crackly finish that makes it both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for tea time, brunch, or as a dessert centerpiece, this cake strikes the balance between comfort food and indulgence. Its light crumb and caramel-like crust add a unique touch that elevates it beyond a basic vanilla loaf, making it a timeless recipe to keep in your collection.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tbsp golden sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract. Mix in sour cream and milk until combined.
- Gently fold in dry ingredients until just incorporated. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle golden sugar evenly over the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Servings
Makes 8–10 slices
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 260
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 170mg
Notes
This loaf cake develops its signature crust when golden sugar is sprinkled generously before baking. For added flavor, you can use vanilla bean paste instead of extract. The cake stays moist for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips
Use room temperature ingredients for best results to ensure smooth blending. Do not overmix the batter once dry ingredients are added, as it may result in a dense loaf. If you prefer a lighter crust, sprinkle less sugar, but for extra crunch, increase the topping slightly. Pair with fresh berries or whipped cream for a more indulgent serving.
Health Benefits
Though it is a treat, this vanilla loaf offers moderate benefits when enjoyed in balance. Eggs provide protein and essential amino acids, while dairy contributes calcium for bone health. The inclusion of sour cream or yogurt adds probiotics that support digestion. Using vanilla not only enhances flavor but also contains trace antioxidants. Enjoyed mindfully, this cake can be part of a balanced lifestyle.
Q & A
Q: Can I use brown sugar instead of golden sugar for the crust?
A: Yes, brown sugar works well, but the crust will have a slightly different texture and a deeper caramel flavor.
Q: How can I make this loaf healthier?
A: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, reduce sugar slightly, or use Greek yogurt for added protein.
Q: Can I freeze this vanilla loaf cake?
A: Yes, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Why is my loaf sinking in the middle?
A: This usually happens if the batter was overmixed, the oven door was opened too early, or the loaf was underbaked. Always check with a toothpick before removing.
Q: Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
A: Absolutely. Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits can be folded in before baking for extra flavor and texture.