PERFECT GERMAN BUTTER CAKE

Steps:

• Butter a 13x9x2 inch baking pan.
• (Mixture 1) In a small bowl combine the yeast,1 tablespoon of the sugar, and the warm water.
• Set aside mixture 1 for 15 minutes or until bubbles appear.
• (Mixture 2) In a small bowl combine the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, salt, and butter.
• Pour the milk into a saucepan. Add vanilla bean and pour into Mixture 2.
• Let Mixture 2 sit until lukewarm.
• Stir in Mixture 1 and add lemon zest.
• Add eggs 1 at a time beating well after each addition.
• Fold in flour a little at a time.
• Beat dough until smooth.
• Spread dough onto prepared pan and cover loosely with a tea towel and set aside in a warm place for 30-45 minutes.
• Let rise.
• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• For topping:.
• Cream butter, sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy stir in the vanilla, the cinnamon, and the nuts (nuts are optional).
• Drop spoonfuls of the topping onto the dough.
• Bake cake for 35 minutes or until top is golden.
• Allow cake to completely cool IN PAN.
• Cut into slices and serve with butter.