She Strengthens

The Ultimate Malt Cake Recipe

A Treat Fit for a Soda Jerk

This decadent dessert is a masterclass in balance and harmony, with each component working together to create a truly unforgettable treat. The star of the show? Malted milk powder, a natural sweetener made from barley malt, wheat, and milk.

What You’ll Need

• 2 cups malted milk powder
• 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/3 cups whole milk
• 1 recipe Vanilla Malt Frosting (see below)
• 1 cup malted milk balls, coarsely chopped

Let’s Get Started!

Preheat your oven to 325°F and prepare two 8-inch cake pans by coating them with oil and flour. Tap out any excess flour and set aside.

The Cake

In a large bowl, whisk together the malted milk powder, flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. Set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Add a third of the flour mixture and whisk until just incorporated. Add half of the milk and whisk until smooth. Continue alternating between the flour mixture and milk until all ingredients are just incorporated.

Bake and Cool

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

The Frosting

Place a cake layer on an 8-inch cardboard round, tart-pan bottom, or cake plate. Evenly spread about a third of the frosting over the top of the layer. Stack the second layer and spread another third of the frosting over the top and sides of the whole cake. Refrigerate until the frosting is set up and slightly hard, about 15 minutes. Remove from the refrigerator and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake, ensuring it’s as even as possible. Press the malt balls into the frosting around the sides of the cake and serve.

Tips and Variations

For an extra-special touch, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt or chopped nuts to the top of the cake before serving. And if you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different flavors like mint or orange to create a unique twist on this classic recipe.