This Classic Amish Onion Cake is a bit different but super tasty! It’s made with sweet onions, spices, and a touch of sugar, giving it a unique flavor you won’t forget.
We all know cake usually means sweet, but this one’s a delightful surprise! I love serving it warm with a dollop of butter—perfect for any meal or snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are key for the cake’s flavor as they caramelize beautifully. If you’re in a pinch, you can use sweet onions or even shallots for a milder taste.
Buttermilk: It adds moisture and a tangy flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for a few minutes as a handy substitute.
Butter vs. Vegetable Oil: I prefer using vegetable oil for moisture, but melted butter can enhance the flavor. Choose based on what you have or enjoy!
Sugar: This small amount helps balance the savory onions. You could experiment with honey or maple syrup if you’re looking for a more natural sweetener.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is the secret to unlocking their sweet flavor. Here’s how to get it right:
- Slice the onions thinly for even cooking.
- Use a good amount of butter or oil in a preheated skillet over medium heat.
- Add sugar, salt, and pepper right away to enhance sweetness and flavor.
- Cook slowly for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown.
- Keep an eye on them to prevent burning—lower the heat if needed!
Perfectly caramelized onions can make such a difference in your dish!
Classic Amish Onion Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 40-45 minutes to bake, plus a few minutes for cooling. In total, you should be ready to enjoy this unique savory cake in about 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so that your cake cooks evenly. Next, grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking. You can also use a similar baking dish if you don’t have a round pan.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let the onions sauté slowly for about 15-20 minutes. You want them to become soft and golden brown without burning. Once they’re ready, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. This helps to aerate the flour and ensures that your cake will rise nicely in the oven.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then stir in the buttermilk and vegetable oil (or melted butter). Mix until it’s well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Carefully add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cake tough.
6. Add the Onions:
Now, gently fold the sautéed onions into the batter, making sure to distribute them evenly throughout.
7. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. You can garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve it warm or at room temperature as a delightful savory dish!
Enjoy this unique and flavorful Amish Onion Cake that combines sweet caramelized onions with a moist, fluffy cake base!
FAQ about Classic Amish Onion Cake
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow onions give a lovely sweetness when caramelized, you can also use sweet onions or even red onions for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Onion Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It’s delicious served warm!
Can I Add Cheese to This Recipe?
Yes! Adding shredded cheese, like cheddar or Swiss, can enhance the flavor and give a delightful richness to the cake. Just fold in about 1 cup of cheese with the onions before baking.
