Oh, I’m so excited to share my Rhubarb and Ginger Loaf Cake recipe with you! This cake is one of those comforting bakes that just fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. There’s something so incredibly special about the combination of tart rhubarb and spicy ginger – they just dance together perfectly in every bite.
I remember the first time I tasted a rhubarb cake at my grandma’s house. She made it every spring when rhubarb was in abundance. The tartness of the rhubarb mixed with the warmth of ginger took me back to sunny garden days and homemade desserts. Thanks to that memory, I couldn’t resist trying to recreate it, and here we are!
Now, let’s dive right into this delightful recipe. Ready to bake?
What’s in Rhubarb and Ginger Loaf Cake?
Flour: The backbone of our loaf cake. I usually reach for all-purpose flour, but feel free to experiment with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor!
Sugar: Just the right amount sweetens up the tartness of the rhubarb. Granulated sugar works best, but I often use a blend of brown sugar for extra moisture and flavor.
Baking Powder: This is what gives our loaf that lovely rise and fluffy texture. Make sure it’s fresh so the cake rises beautifully!
Ground Ginger: This spice adds a delightful warmth and zing to the cake. If you can find fresh ginger, definitely use that instead for an even more robust flavor!
Butter: A key player for moisture and richness. I prefer unsalted butter so that I can control the saltiness in my cake.
Eggs: They help bind everything together and contribute to that airy texture.
Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter; I usually go for whole milk, but any milk will do.
Fresh Rhubarb: The star of the show! Its tartness cuts through the sweetness and gives the cake an irresistible edge.
Is Rhubarb and Ginger Loaf Cake Good for You?
Now, while this cake is a real treat, let’s chat about its health aspects!
Rhubarb: It’s low in calories and high in fiber, so that’s a definite plus. Plus, it’s rich in vitamin K and antioxidants!
Ginger: Besides giving flavor, ginger can aid digestion and potentially help with inflammation. A win-win for this lovely loaf!
Just remember—like all sweet treats, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Pair it with a nice cup of tea, and you’ve got a perfect afternoon pick-me-up!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 3/4 cup milk
– 1 1/2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped (plus a few pieces for decoration)
**Servings:** This recipe yields about 8-10 slices depending on the size of your slices (let’s be real, I usually go for generous slices!).
How to Make Rhubarb and Ginger Loaf Cake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and ground ginger until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the softened butter, eggs, and milk until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix; lumps are okay!
5. Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Place a few rhubarb pieces on top for decoration.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Sweet Suggestions for Serving Up!
You can enjoy this cake as it is, or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a little indulgence! A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can make it look fancy too.
If you really want to amp up the ginger flavor, consider making a ginger glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a bit of ginger syrup. Drizzle that over the cooled cake, and you’ll impress everyone at the table!
I can’t wait for you to try this Rhubarb and Ginger Loaf Cake! It’s perfect for a gathering or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea on a cozy afternoon. If you make it, please let me know how it turns out! Happy baking!