Belgian Malt Cake

A Belgian Malt Cake is a deliciously rich and moist cake with a distinct malt flavor, often complemented by a chocolate malt frosting. This cake is perfect for those who love the unique taste of malted milk. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a Belgian Malt Cake:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup malted milk powder
• 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Chocolate Malt Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup malted milk powder
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Garnish:

• Malted milk balls (such as Whoppers)
• Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
   • In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract.
   • In a small bowl, combine the whole milk and malted milk powder, stirring until the malt powder is dissolved.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
   • Fold in the sour cream until the batter is smooth.
3. Bake the Cake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Malt Frosting:
   • In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, malted milk powder, and salt, beating well after each addition.
   • Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
5. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
6. Garnish the Cake:
   • Decorate the top of the cake with malted milk balls.
   • Add shaved chocolate or chocolate curls for an extra touch of elegance.
7. Serve:
   • Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy the rich, malted flavors of this Belgian Malt Cake.

Tips:

• For an even richer flavor, you can add a bit of melted chocolate to the cake batter.
• Make sure the butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing.
• You can add a touch of coffee to the frosting to enhance the chocolate and malt flavors.

This Belgian Malt Cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a unique and delightful flavor that’s sure to impress. Enjoy