Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re diving into the world of healthy baking with a delightful Classic Millet Cake. Millet, a nutrient-dense ancient grain, lends a subtle, nutty flavor to this moist and tender cake. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 cup millet flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• Optional Add-ins:
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
  • 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the millet flour, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and plain yogurt 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, as this can make the cake dense.
5. Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re using nuts or dried fruits, fold them into the batter at this stage. They add a delightful texture and extra flavor to the cake.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. 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 Classic Millet Cake. Enjoy it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream!

Tips and Variations:

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk) and a dairy-free yogurt.
• Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a zest of one lemon or orange to the batter for a flavor boost.

This Classic Millet Cake is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert. Its wholesome ingredients and delightful taste make it a crowd-pleaser. Happy baking!