Moravian Sugar Cake Recipe

Directions

Dissolve yeast in water. Sprinkle surface with teaspoon of sugar, cover with plastic wrap and set aside to proof for 5 minutes; yeast mixture should become foamy. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt and set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer fit with an paddle attachment, beat together 8 tablespoons butter and sugar until light and creamy. Add the egg, beating until just combined, then add the mashed potatoes, milk, dissolved yeast, and vanilla until fully combined. Slowly stir in the flour mixture until a soft dough forms. Shape dough into a ball and place in a large greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in the refrigerator. Dough should double in size overnight. Punch dough down and knead lightly on a generously floured surface. Roll out the dough so it fits a 13- by 9- by 2-inch greased baking dish. Place the dough in the dish, then cover with a light towel and set in a warm place to rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Move the oven rack to the center position and preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Add remaining 4 tablespoons butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until thoroughly combined. Using your index finger, poke deep holes evenly across the surface of the cake. Swirl your finger to widen the hole to create wells for the topping. Fill each hole with cinnamon and sugar topping. Bake until golden on top and done in the middle, about 30 to 35 minutes. Serve warm.