Sand Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350F.
2. 2
   Smear the bottom, sides, and cone of an 8- or 9-inch tube pan with butter and sprinkle with bread crumbs; invert the pan over the sink to remove excess crumbs.
3. 3
   Set aside.
4. 4
   Mix together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and spices and set aside.
5. 5
   Using an electric mixer, cream the butter with the granulated sugar until light and fluffy, 5 minutes or so.
6. 6
   Add the eggs one at a time, continuing to beat.
7. 7
   Add the vanilla and beat for another 30 seconds.
8. 8
   Remove the bowl from the mixer and add the dry ingredients all at once; mix, by hand, until they are well incorporated but no longer.
9. 9
   Pour and scrape the batter into the prepared pan; rap the pan sharply against the counter to eliminate any lingering pockets of air.
10. 10
    Bake for 45 minutes before checking; the cake is done when it is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in its center comes out clean.
11. 11
    Remove the cake from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
12. 12
    Run a knife around the edge, cover the pan with a rack, and invert the rack and pan.
13. 13
    Cool before serving plain, with whipped cream, or sprinkled with confectioners sugar if desired.