Sweet Cornish Saffron Cake with Orange Glaze and Nutmeg

Name: Sweet Cornish Saffron Cake with Orange Glaze and Nutmeg
Prep time: 3 h
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 10
Cuisine: Dessert
Ingredients: 1 tsp saffron threads; 2 tbsp warm water; 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter — softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast; ¾ cup warm milk; 2 large eggs; Zest of 1 orange; 1 cup mixed dried fruits (e.g., currants, raisins, and candied peel); 1 cup powdered sugar; 3 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice; ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg

A delectable Cornish treat infused with saffron and citrus

This traditional Cornish saffron cake is enriched with zesty orange and topped with a vibrant glaze and nutmeg, creating a delightful sensory experience.

3 h
10
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Saffron Infusion

1 tsp saffron threads

2 tbsp warm water

For the Cake

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

½ cup unsalted butter — softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

1 packet (7g) active dry yeast

¾ cup warm milk

2 large eggs

Zest of 1 orange

1 cup mixed dried fruits (e.g., currants, raisins, and candied peel)

For the Orange Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar

3 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice

For the Topping

¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg

Preparation

Preparing the Saffron Infusion

Bloom the saffron

Soak the saffron threads in warm water for 30 minutes to bloom the flavor and color.

Ensuring the saffron is adequately bloomed will maximize its flavor and color.

Mix occasionally

Stir occasionally to mix well.

Set aside

Set aside until ready to use.

Mixing the Dough

Activate the yeast

Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk; let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Combine dry ingredients

In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.

Form the dough

Add softened butter, sugar, eggs, orange zest, and saffron infusion to the flour mixture.

Important: Do not overmix the dough; it should be just combined. Pro Tip: Let the dough rise in a warm place to allow it to double in size.

Cooking Process

Kneading the Dough

Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Allow the dough to rise in a greased bowl, covered, until doubled in size.

Timing: First Rise: 1.5 to 2 hours; Heat Guide: Rising: Room Temperature.

Baking the Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.

Timing: Baking: 35-40 minutes; Heat Guide: Baking: 350°F (175°C).

Plating & Serving