If you’re looking for a recipe that combines rich, creamy flavors with the comforting warmth of a cake, then fricassee cake is the perfect dish for you. This savory cake is a wonderful creation that takes the traditional concept of a chicken fricassee stew and transforms it into a soft, flavorful cake. It’s an interesting blend of a stew with a cake batter, and the result is a unique and delightful meal.
In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the steps of making this savory fricassee cake. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just for a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to impress everyone around the dinner table.
What Is a Fricassee Cake?
A fricassee cake is a savory cake made by combining a rich, creamy filling (usually a chicken fricassee) with a light cake batter. The term “fricassee” refers to a method of cooking, typically used for chicken, where the meat is simmered in a sauce made with broth, cream, and vegetables like onions, mushrooms, and garlic. In this recipe, we transform the classic fricassee filling into the heart of a cake, blending it with a fluffy batter and cooking it to perfection in a skillet.
It’s not your average cake. This dish uses the concept of a savory stew (like a chicken fricassee) and combines it with the light, airy texture of a cake, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together both rich flavors and tender textures.
Why Make Fricassee Cake?
- Comforting and Flavorful: This cake combines the hearty, comforting taste of chicken fricassee with the soft texture of a cake. The creamy filling provides a richness that is balanced by the fluffiness of the cake.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with your choice of meat (chicken, beef, turkey, etc.) and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can even make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and using vegetables and vegetable broth instead.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Whether you serve it as a main course for dinner or as a snack for lunch, fricassee cake is a crowd-pleaser. It’s also a great option for meal prepping, as it can be easily stored and reheated.
Ingredients for Fricassee Cake
Chicken Fricassee Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – You can use any cooked chicken, such as boiled or roasted chicken breasts. If you prefer, you can substitute with another meat like turkey or beef.
- 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing the vegetables and making the roux.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Onions add a savory depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic adds aromatic richness to the filling.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Mushrooms provide an earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – To thicken the sauce and create the roux.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Adds flavor and moisture to the sauce.
- ½ cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce creamy and rich.
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme – A touch of thyme enhances the savory flavor of the filling.
- Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning the filling.
Cake Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the batter for a soft and fluffy texture.
- 1 cup milk – For moisture in the batter.
- 2 large eggs – Eggs help bind the ingredients and give the cake structure.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors in the batter.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to the batter.
- 2-3 fresh jalapenos, finely chopped – Optional, but they add a spicy touch to the cake. You can skip them if you prefer a milder flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For greasing the skillet and preventing the cakes from sticking.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls – For preparing both the chicken fricassee filling and cake batter.
- Whisk – To combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients smoothly.
- Knife and chopping board – For chopping the vegetables, chicken, and jalapenos.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurately measuring all ingredients.
- Non-stick skillet or griddle – To cook the cakes. It’s best to use a non-stick skillet to avoid the cakes from sticking.
- Spatula – For flipping the cakes.
- Cooling rack – To let the cakes cool slightly before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Fricassee Cake
Making the Chicken Fricassee Filling
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Wait until it’s fully melted, and make sure to spread it evenly across the bottom of the skillet to prevent the ingredients from sticking.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Mushrooms
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, stirring them with the onion and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms soften and release their moisture.
Step 3: Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the flour, which helps to thicken the sauce. Let this cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 4: Add the Liquid
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to ensure it blends smoothly with the flour mixture. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
- Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce cook for another 2-3 minutes until it becomes thick and creamy.
Step 6: Add the Chicken
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through.
Step 7: Cool the Filling
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the chicken fricassee filling cool slightly before adding it to the cake batter.
Making the Cake Batter
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk and eggs together until smooth. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
Step 3: Add the Filling
- Fold the cooled chicken fricassee filling and chopped jalapenos (if using) into the batter. Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed, but be careful not to overmix.
Cooking the Fricassee Cakes
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
Step 2: Cook the Cakes
- Spoon small portions of the batter into the skillet to form small cakes. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to carefully flip the cakes to avoid breaking them.
Step 3: Let the Cakes Cool
- Once the cakes are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cooling rack for a few minutes before serving.
What to Serve with Fricassee Cake
Fricassee cakes can be served with various side dishes to complete the meal. Here are some ideas:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The smoothness of mashed potatoes complements the richness of the fricassee filling.
- Steamed Vegetables – A light, healthy side like steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans balances out the meal.
- French Fries or Crispy Potatoes – For a more indulgent side, serve the cakes with crispy fries or roasted potatoes.
- Raspberry Chipotle Sauce – A sweet and spicy sauce that adds a burst of flavor and goes perfectly with the cakes.
As for drinks, iced tea, a fruity smoothie, or even a cocktail like an Old Overholt can pair nicely with fricassee cake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Long Does It Take to Cook a Fricassee Cake?
On average, it takes about 1 hour to make and cook fricassee cakes, including the preparation of the filling and batter.
Can I Use Other Meats?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, pork, or even beef. Just ensure that the meat is cooked and shredded before adding it to the filling.
Can I Freeze Fricassee Cakes?
Yes, fricassee cakes freeze well. Once cooked, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Can I Make a Vegetarian Version?
Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and use vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Fricassee cake is a creative and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of a chicken fricassee stew with
Recipe you may like…
fricassee cake (With Chicken)
Ingredients
Chicken Fricassee Filling:
- 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 cup of mushrooms sliced
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper
Cake Batter:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2-3 fresh jalapenos finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil for cooking
Instructions
Chicken Fricassee Filling:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter is fully melted and spread evenly to prevent sticking.
- Add 1 small chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and stir with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are soft.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. This will help thicken the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
- Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ¼ teaspoon of dried thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Add 2 cups of shredded chicken and stir to coat the chicken with the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. If using, stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly before adding it to the cake batter.
Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 2 eggs until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
- Fold in the cooled chicken fricassee filling and 2-3 finely chopped jalapenos (if using). Mix gently to distribute evenly, being careful not to overmix.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and coat with a little olive oil.
- Spoon small portions of the batter onto the skillet to form cakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to flip the cakes carefully to avoid breaking.
- Serve and enjoy! Pair with an Old Overholt Cocktail for a perfect meal.
NOTES
- For tender chicken, use cooked chicken breasts. You can boil or roast them, depending on your preference.
- Always start with medium heat and make sure the butter is spread evenly across the skillet.
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables to avoid any lumps in the sauce.
- Use a skillet and add oil to prevent the cakes from sticking. Cook the cakes in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
