Baumkuchen

Baumkuchen is a type of layered cake that originated in Germany, but has also become popular in Japan, where it is known as "baumkuchen" or "baumu" for short. It is often referred to as the "King of Cakes" due to its unique appearance and delicious taste. Baumkuchen is made by layering thin batter on a rotating spit, and then grilling each layer until it is lightly browned before adding another layer on top. This process is repeated multiple times, creating a distinctive ring pattern resembling tree rings when the cake is sliced. 

Here's a simplified recipe for making baumkuchen at home:

Ingredients:

1. 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
3. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
4. 4 large eggs
5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6. 1/4 teaspoon salt
7. 1/4 cup milk
8. Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, sift the flour to remove any lumps.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
6. Gradually add the sifted flour to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
7. Pour a thin layer of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
8. Bake the layer in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes, or until it is lightly golden brown.
9. Remove the cake pan from the oven and pour another thin layer of batter over the baked layer, spreading it evenly.
10. Return the cake pan to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes.
11. Repeat the process of adding and baking thin layers of batter until all the batter is used up, or until the cake reaches your desired height.
12. Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Once the cake is fully cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
14. To serve, slice the baumkuchen into thin wedges, and enjoy the unique layered texture and rich flavor of this delicious cake.

Note: Traditional baumkuchen is made on a rotating spit, which allows for even grilling of each layer. However, at home, you can achieve a similar effect by using a cake pan and layering the batter thinly with each bake. For a more authentic baumkuchen, you can try using a rotating spit or special baumkuchen molds, which are available for purchase online or at specialty baking stores.