Sure! Here’s a complete version of the Sock-It-To-Me Cake recipe, filled with an introduction, ingredients, history, methods, and a conclusion to make it extra delicious!
Sock-It-To-Me Cake: A Classic Southern Delight
Introduction:
The Sock-It-To-Me Cake is a beloved Southern dessert that has been around for decades. Known for its moist, flavorful texture, and irresistible cinnamon-sugar swirl, this cake gets its unique name from the bold and rich flavors that “sock” you with every bite. It’s a perfect combination of buttery richness, sweet vanilla, and a swirl of cinnamon that brings together the warmth of a classic cake with a twist of surprise inside.
This cake has long been a go-to for family gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, the Sock-It-To-Me Cake is sure to win the hearts of everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 sticks of salted butter (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (such as Crisco)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)
- 3 1/4 cups Swan Down cake flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, but highly recommended!)
Method:
1. Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan. This ensures that the cake comes out easily after baking.
2. Mix the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
- In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and the chopped pecans (if you’re using them). Set aside for later. This will create that iconic cinnamon swirl throughout the cake.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and vegetable oil together using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix again.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour and baking soda. This will help ensure the cake has an even texture when baked.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Be careful not to overmix—just until combined.
6. Layer the Cake:
- Spoon half of the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth it out evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter on top and finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
7. Swirl and Bake:
- Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect. Be sure not to overdo it—you want to create a beautiful swirl, not mix the ingredients completely.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it from the pan.
- Transfer the cake to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely.
- Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of cream cheese frosting for an extra touch of sweetness.
History of the Sock-It-To-Me Cake:
The Sock-It-To-Me Cake has roots deeply embedded in Southern tradition. Its exact origins are a bit hazy, but many credit the cake’s rise to popularity in the 1970s. The unique name, “Sock-It-To-Me,” was reportedly inspired by the popularity of phrases from the television show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, which aired in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The phrase “sock it to me” was used as a way to express enthusiasm, and the cake’s bold flavor did indeed “sock” the taste buds with its rich, buttery texture and the surprising cinnamon swirl.
Over the years, the Sock-It-To-Me Cake has been a staple at family reunions, church picnics, and holiday celebrations in the South. Its popularity spread across the country, with home bakers making variations by adding fruits, nuts, or different types of cake flour.
Formation of the Cake:
The formation of the Sock-It-To-Me Cake comes from the combination of simple ingredients—salted butter, sugar, eggs, and sour cream—that come together to create a tender, moist cake. The cinnamon-sugar swirl inside creates an unexpected burst of flavor with every bite. The use of Swan Down cake flour, which is a finely milled flour, is essential to creating that light, delicate crumb that’s characteristic of this cake.
The method itself is straightforward, with creaming the butter and sugar to create a fluffy base for the cake, and then layering the cinnamon-sugar filling in between. The swirling technique brings everything together into a beautiful, delicious treat that is sure to impress.
Conclusion:
The Sock-It-To-Me Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a Southern tradition, a slice of nostalgia, and an absolute crowd-pleaser. With its tender crumb, rich cinnamon swirl, and buttery flavor, it’s no wonder that this cake has become a beloved classic. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy with family, this cake is a sweet reminder of the importance of good food, good company, and the joy of sharing a homemade treat.
Enjoy every slice of this delightful cake and let the flavor “sock” you with all the warmth and love that goes into each bite. Happy baking!
Let me know if you want to make any adjustments or if you’d like to dive into more cake recipes!