A Family Favourite

Our family doesn't have many "secret" recipes or special traditions that have been passed down through the generations but there is one that I have kept alive and hope to teach my children as well.  I think it's gone as far as my Great-Oma in Holland but maybe further than that - its her recipe for a Dutch favourite treat called Boterkoek.  When translated it means Butter Cake and really that's all it is plus a little of almond flavouring.

 The recipe starts with softened butter (or for the healthier version - margarine) plus a cup or two of sugar.  Add in eggs, flour, almond flavouring a little baking soda.

After mixing this is what you get!  And the best part is of course....

licking the beaters!!!

And here's the final product minus a few pieces :-)

Boterkoek

4/5 lb butter (I used salted) (if your butter block is in sticks this means 3 sticks - if not then just mark off your butter into 5 sections and use only 4.
2 cups of sugar
3 eggs
3 cups of flour
2 tsp almond flavouring
1 tsp baking powder
1 egg yolk
sliced almond (optional)

Directions

1.  Let the butter soften and cream together with the sugar. 
2.  Add eggs and mix well.
3.  Add remaining ingredients.
4.  Divide mixture and put into 2 greased pie dishes - smooth out with a knife to finish. 
5.  Mix the egg yolk with a bit of milk and spread the mixture over the top of the cake with a knife.
6.  Sprinkle on sliced almonds if desired.
7.  Bake at 350 F for 35 - 45 minutes.  Don't let over bake otherwise it will become dry just bake until its lightly golden and when you touch the middle its slightly soft.  This will give you a moist Boterkoek!

Enjoy!!