Basil Cake

Grease and flour a 13x9x2 inch baking pan (or a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan). Stir together flour and basil.

In a large mixer bowl, beat butter on medium speed for 30 seconds. Gradually add sugar, beating 8 minutes or till fluffy.

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating 2 minutes after each addition; scrape bowl frequently.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, beating on low speed just till thoroughly blended. Turn batter into prepared pan.

Bake in a 325F oven about 45 minutes for the 13x9x2 pan, or about 1 ¼ hours for the loaf pan. Let the 13x9x2 inch cake cool completely on a wire rack. Cool loaf pan on wire rack for 10 minutes before removing from pan, then let completely cool on rack.

Note: The beating time is important. I use my KitchenAid stand mixer when I make this cake. This cake also makes a wonderful base for fresh strawberries.