Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re indulging in the simple pleasures of a Vanilla Millet Cake—a delightful treat that combines the nutty essence of millet with the comforting aroma of vanilla. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 cup millet flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional:
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt (for added moisture)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch cake pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the millet flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the milk, vanilla extract, and plain yogurt (if using), mixing until smooth and well blended.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake light and fluffy.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan(s) and spread it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve your Vanilla Millet Cake. Enjoy it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips and Variations:

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives.
• Enhanced Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract for a twist on the classic vanilla flavor.
• Fruit Addition: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or dried fruit, such as berries or chopped apples, for added texture and sweetness.

This Vanilla Millet Cake is a celebration of simplicity and flavor, making it a versatile treat for any occasion. Its moist and tender crumb paired with the subtle nuttiness of millet and the comforting warmth of vanilla will surely make it a favorite in your home. Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful cake!