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Epicurious

Glazed Sour Cream Gem Cakes

4.7

(8)

Photo of matcha strawberry and milk tea flavored gem cakes.
Photo by Joseph De Leo, Food Styling by Lillian Chou

Gem Cakes are mini sour cream cakes dressed up in a variety of glazes. They are simple yet sophisticated, and lovely for springtime snacking. Thanks to the addition of sweet rice flour and rich sour cream, the cakes have a uniquely plush texture: They’re tender, while retaining structure, and wonderfully moist. I originally developed this recipe for a Bundt brownie pan (hence the “gem” shape and name), but a standard muffin pan works just as well, producing mini cakes that are a feast for the eyes and perfect for sharing. I recommend spraying the pan with PAM for Baking, which has a little flour in the mix to help prevent sticking.

  

Speaking of glazes: The variations are only a starting point; feel free to experiment with the spices, powders, and extracts you have on hand. Just be sure to add flavorings a little at a time until you get to your desired intensity.

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