Have you ever heard of Thunder Cake? If not, you’re in for a treat! This delicious, moist cake isn’t just any dessert; it’s packed with a rich history and connection to nature that makes it extra special. Originating from a popular children’s book called Thunder Cake by Patricia Polacco, this cake holds a place in the hearts of many who love both sweet treats and storytelling. Whether you’re familiar with the story or not, you’ll fall in love with the cake itself. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful dessert at home!
What is Thunder Cake?
Thunder Cake is a moist chocolate cake with a twist—it’s made with tomato! Yes, you read that right. The tomato gives the cake a rich, dense texture, almost like a super moist spice cake. But wait, there’s more to it than just the secret ingredient. This cake is rooted in tradition and is said to have been made by an older woman for her granddaughter, based on a fascinating legend that connects thunderstorms to cake baking.
In Patricia Polacco’s book, the grandmother and granddaughter bake the cake during a thunderstorm. The idea was that the cake would be ready by the time the storm passed, and the little one learned to overcome her fear of storms. The cake itself represents the comforting embrace of home, safety, and love—a feeling every bite of this cake will give you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start baking, gather the following ingredients. While it may sound unusual to use tomato in a cake, trust me, it adds the perfect richness!
For the Cake:
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pureed tomatoes (fresh or canned, without added seasonings)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup milk (more if needed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Thunder Cake
Now, let’s get into the fun part—baking! The process is pretty straightforward, but you’ll want to follow each step to make sure your Thunder Cake turns out perfect. Ready? Let’s go!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want it nice and hot to ensure that your cake rises perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pans
Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper to ensure the cakes come out without sticking. Set them aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and sugar until they are well combined. Next, add the eggs, one at a time, and continue whisking. Stir in the pureed tomatoes and vanilla extract until smooth. The tomato puree gives the cake a unique flavor that you won’t believe until you try it!
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Sifting the dry ingredients helps prevent clumps and gives your cake a lighter texture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while mixing. Alternate adding the milk and dry ingredients until everything is combined into a smooth batter. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to get all the ingredients mixed in.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula, and then place them in the oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, you can prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk to achieve the right consistency.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a cake plate or serving platter. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake, covering the sides as well. You can decorate the cake with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries, but it’s delicious even on its own.
Tips for the Perfect Thunder Cake
- Use fresh tomatoes if possible: Fresh tomatoes make a huge difference in the flavor, but canned tomatoes work well too.
- Don’t skip the frosting: The chocolate frosting is rich and balances out the slight tanginess of the tomato in the cake.
- Let the cake cool completely: If you frost it while it’s still warm, the frosting might melt off, so give it time to cool.
- Customize it: You can add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a dash of cinnamon for a twist on the traditional recipe.
Why Thunder Cake is Special
Thunder Cake isn’t just about the taste. It’s about tradition, comfort, and family. It’s a reminder of the simple joys of baking and the powerful lessons shared through food. Whether you’re making this cake for a special occasion or just because you need something comforting, you can feel the love in every bite. Plus, it’s a fun conversation starter—imagine telling your friends about the secret ingredient of tomatoes!
Conclusion
Thunder Cake is a delightful recipe that combines both tradition and taste. Its unique ingredients and comforting texture make it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of the book Thunder Cake or just looking for a new dessert to try, this cake is sure to be a hit. So, the next time a storm rolls in, why not whip up a batch of Thunder Cake to enjoy with family and friends? After all, nothing makes a storm more bearable than a slice of cake!
FAQs
What makes Thunder Cake different from regular chocolate cake?
Thunder Cake is unique because it includes pureed tomatoes, which gives it a dense, moist texture and subtle tang.
Can I use canned tomatoes for Thunder Cake?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but make sure they are plain, with no added seasonings or salt.
Can I make Thunder Cake ahead of time?
Yes, Thunder Cake can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. The flavors even improve after resting!
How long will Thunder Cake last?
It can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week if refrigerated.
Can I freeze Thunder Cake?
Yes, Thunder Cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I make Thunder Cake without frosting?
Yes, the cake is delicious on its own, but the chocolate frosting adds a wonderful richness that complements the flavors.
Is Thunder Cake gluten-free?
No, Thunder Cake contains flour. However, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Can I add other flavors to Thunder Cake?
Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Why is the cake called Thunder Cake?
The name comes from the tradition of baking the cake when a thunderstorm is happening, symbolizing comfort during a storm.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil or another neutral-flavored oil, but vegetable oil works best for this recipe.