Za'atar Infusion Cake
Introduction to Za'atar Infusion Cake
The Za'atar Infusion Cake is a unique dessert that blends the traditional Middle Eastern flavors of za'atar with a modern twist. This cake is perfect for those who appreciate the earthy and aromatic notes of za'atar, a spice mixture typically composed of dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, toasted sesame seeds, and sumac. Historically, za'atar has been a cornerstone of Middle Eastern cuisine, used for its flavor as well as its believed health benefits. The term "za'atar" not only refers to the spice blend but also to wild herbs like oregano and thyme found in the hills of the Middle East.
Ingredients
- Flour - 2 cups
- Sugar - 1 cup
- Baking Powder - 2 teaspoons
- Baking Soda - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Za'atar - 3 tablespoons
- Eggs - 3 large
- Olive Oil - 1/2 cup
- Yogurt - 1 cup
- Lemon Zest - 1 tablespoon
- Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
Preparation
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure you have all your ingredients ready and measured. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a cake pan by greasing it lightly with olive oil.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and za'atar. Use a whisk to blend them evenly.
Creating the Wet Mixture
In another bowl, beat the eggs until they are slightly foamy. Add in the olive oil, yogurt, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the ingredients are blended smoothly.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula just until the mixture is combined. Do not overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
The Cooking Process
Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Place the pan into the preheated oven and set your cooking timer for 30 to 35 minutes. Check the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Cooling
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoying Your Za'atar Infusion Cake
This cake is best served at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar. For an additional infusion of flavor, drizzle a little honey on top. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of mint tea or freshly brewed coffee. Whether serving at a dinner party or enjoying a slice with family, the Za'atar Infusion Cake is bound to be a delightful and aromatic treat.