Photo by Vanessa.
My ideal bar is one that offers snacks: peanuts, chips, an emergency hot dog, anything really. They’re nearly as crucial as the beverages. At the snug Brooklyn venue Dynaco, there’s often a freshly baked cake displayed behind the bar. Not long ago, while my girlfriend and I engaged in a card game, I sampled a slice I hadn’t tried yet: a chocolate cake with ginger, topped with a fluffy cream cheese frosting. I can’t stop thinking about it.
Let’s just assume I triumphed in this round of Spite & Malice.
Eventually, I connected with Catherine Lloyd Burns, whose husband opened the bar with his brother back in 2013. Catherine is the one who bakes all the cakes for Dynaco and responded to an email I’m sure she’s received multiple times. “Many folks have requested the recipe and I haven’t shared it yet,” she told me. “I’m uncertain if I ever will.” But! She was very accommodating. She mentioned she started with a Nigella recipe and then “made some modifications because I don’t like to simply replicate someone else’s cakes.” However, “that specific Nigella cake is flawless” and, she assured, I would be quite pleased with it.
The following weekend, I bought a Guinness from the bodega and gave it a shot. I can’t even recall the last time I baked a cake, so my attempt was a testament to how much I adored Catherine’s cake at Dynaco and also how accessible Nigella’s recipe is. Catherine is correct about Nigella’s cake; it’s truly, exceptionally good. Since I’m not an expert baker, mine turned out looking a bit like a child’s bake sale creation, but that didn’t lessen its delightful flavor. The next morning, I enjoyed a slice with my coffee.
Breakfast of champions.
As I was enjoying the Nigella cake, I speculated if one of Catherine’s tweaks was the addition of fresh ginger, but both cakes are wonderful. I’m definitely planning to make it again. And likely visit Dynaco to check out their current seasonal cake offering.
If you’d like to try making it yourself, here’s the recipe (NYTimes gift link). “This cake is magnificent in its moist darkness,” Nigella states. “I wanted to create a cream cheese frosting, but it’s perfectly fine to leave the cake un-iced: in fact, it tastes amazing plain.”
Have you ever searched for a recipe from a restaurant? Or attempted to recreate one? Thank you, Catherine, for alerting us to this fantastic recipe. Non-bakers in New York can order one of Catherine’s stout cakes by contacting her directly. It costs $80 and, as I mentioned, it’s incredibly tasty.
P.S. The ultimate strawberry cake, Dorie Greenspan’s everything cake, and pound cake with apples, French style.
(Top photo by Vanessa of Kitchen Feasts.)
Title: How I Discovered the Recipe for a Memorable Cake
In the baking realm, finding that ideal cake recipe can sometimes resemble looking for a needle in a haystack. The adventure of uncovering an unforgettable cake recipe is often filled with experimentation, setbacks, and a dash of luck. Here’s how I embarked on this culinary journey and found a recipe that has turned into a beloved staple in my home.
**The Motivation**
It all began at a family get-together. I wanted to whip up a dessert that would not only please my relatives’ sweet cravings but also create a lasting impact. I envisioned a cake that was moist, flavorful, and visually captivating. With this aspiration in mind, I set out on my quest for the perfect cake recipe.
**Investigation and Discovery**
The first phase was research. I combed through cookbooks, food blogs, and online discussions, on the lookout for inspiration and advice. I closely examined reviews and comments, identifying recipes that had been tested and cherished by others. I immersed myself in various baking shows and tutorials, soaking up knowledge and techniques from experienced bakers.
**Trial and Error in the Kitchen**
Equipped with a selection of promising recipes, I ventured into the kitchen. I experimented with various ingredient combinations, adjusting amounts and baking durations. I played with flavors, integrating different extracts, spices, and zests to craft a distinct taste profile. Each trial brought me nearer to the cake I had envisioned.
**The Revelation**
The revelation came unexpectedly. While browsing through an old family cookbook, I stumbled upon a handwritten recipe from my grandmother. It was a straightforward vanilla cake recipe, but something about it grabbed my attention. I decided to test it out, adding my own flair by including fresh berries and a touch of lemon zest.
**The Memorable Cake**
The outcome was a cake that surpassed my expectations. It was exceptionally moist, with a tender crumb and an ideal balance of sweetness and tanginess. The fresh berries contributed bursts of flavor, while the lemon zest provided a refreshing conclusion. The cake was not just delectable but also visually striking, boasting vibrant colors that made it a focal point at the family gathering.
**Spreading the Delight**
The cake was an immediate sensation. Family members praised its flavor and texture, and many requested the recipe. I was excited to share it, knowing it would bring happiness to others just as it had to me. This experience taught me that often the best recipes blend tradition with creativity, resulting in something truly unforgettable.
**Final Thoughts**
Discovering the recipe for an unforgettable cake was a journey marked by exploration, creativity, and a sprinkle of nostalgia. It reminded me of the joy of baking and the ability of food to unite people. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, I encourage you to embark on your culinary adventure. You never know when you might stumble upon a recipe that becomes a cherished favorite for many years.
