Busan Cloud Cake
Background and History
The Busan Cloud Cake, a delicate and fluffy dessert, hails from the bustling port city of Busan in South Korea. Known for its picturesque cloud-like texture, this cake is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Its airy consistency is achieved through precise whisking and the careful balance of ingredients, making it a culinary art as much as a dessert.
The tradition of light and fluffy cakes has deep roots in Korean cuisine, influenced by French patisserie during the 19th century. Over the years, bakers in Busan have perfected their own unique version, making it a must-try when visiting the city. Its soft, cloud-like appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture have earned it the nickname "Baek-Soolgi" in Korean, which translates to cloud cake.
Ingredients
- Eggs - 4 large, preferably at room temperature
- Sugar - 1 cup
- All-purpose flour - 1 cup
- Cornstarch - 1/4 cup
- Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
- Milk - 1/2 cup
- Unsalted butter - 1/2 cup, melted and cooled
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - a pinch
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing your eggs. Separate the yolks from the whites and place them in different mixing bowls. Make sure the egg whites are in a clean, dry bowl to ensure proper whipping. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake tin with butter.
Step 2: Mixing the Batter
In a large bowl, sift together flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Add a pinch of salt to the dry mixture. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with 1/2 cup of sugar until pale and creamy. Gradually add in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 3: Prepare Egg Whites
Using an electric mixer, whisk the egg whites on medium-high speed until foamy. Slowly add the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. This process could take around 5-7 minutes, so make sure to watch your timer.
Step 4: Combine and Fold
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture. To maintain the airy texture of our Busan Cloud Cake, use a spatula to carefully fold it in batches, avoiding knocking out too much air. Once combined, fold in the dry flour mixture until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
Cooking Process
Step 5: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin. Tap gently to release any large air pockets. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on your timer and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.
Step 6: Cooling and Finishing Touches
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from becoming soggy at the bottom.
Enjoying Your Busan Cloud Cake
The Busan Cloud Cake is best enjoyed with a light cream topping or a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat or serve it as a delightful dessert after a meal. Its light, fluffy texture makes it a perfect option for those who prefer a less dense dessert.