Cassava cake is a beloved Filipino dessert that encapsulates the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. This delightful treat is enjoyed year-round, bringing together the flavors of cassava, coconut, and condensed milk into a moist and satisfying cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re exploring Filipino cuisine or simply looking to expand your dessert repertoire, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds with its unique textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Let’s delve into the ingredients that make this cassava cake a standout:
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Cassava: This starchy root vegetable, also known as yuca or manioc, forms the base of the cake. It provides a hearty texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and creaminess to the cake, ensuring a rich and indulgent taste.
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Evaporated Milk: Brings a subtle creaminess and depth of flavor to the cake batter.
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Coconut Milk: Provides a distinct coconut flavor that complements the cassava well, contributing to the moistness of the cake.
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Coconut Cream: Enhances the coconut flavor further and adds richness to both the cake and the topping.
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Sugar: Balances out the flavors and sweetness of the other ingredients.
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Eggs: Act as a binder, helping to hold the cake together while also providing structure.
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Coconut: Used in both the cake and the topping, coconut adds texture and a tropical flair to the dessert.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of cassava cake can help you make informed choices about your diet:
- Calories: Each serving of cassava cake provides approximately 282.7 calories.
- Fat: It contains about 12.1 grams of fat per serving, with saturated fat content at 9.5 grams.
- Cholesterol and Sodium: There are 53.7 mg of cholesterol and 67.1 mg of sodium per serving.
- Carbohydrates and Fiber: The cake is carbohydrate-rich, with 40.1 grams per serving, and provides 1.3 grams of fiber.
- Protein and Sugar: Each serving offers 5.1 grams of protein and contains 23.5 grams of sugar.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the steps to prepare this delicious cassava cake:
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (approximately 163°C).
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Prepare Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cassava (grated or processed), sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, coconut cream, sugar, and eggs. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter equally into two large greased rectangular pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is no longer liquid and begins to set.
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Prepare Topping: While the cakes are baking, prepare the topping. Mix together the ingredients for the topping until well combined.
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Apply Topping: After the initial baking period, spread the topping evenly over the two cakes.
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Continue Baking: Return the cakes to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden.
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Cool and Slice: Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans. Once cooled, carefully slice each cake into 24 equal squares.
Serving and Storage
Cassava cake is typically served at room temperature or slightly chilled. It can be enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several days. To reheat, simply microwave briefly or warm in a toaster oven until heated through.
Tips for Success
- Cassava Preparation: Ensure the cassava is properly grated or processed to achieve a smooth texture in the cake.
- Even Baking: Monitor the cakes closely during the baking process to prevent over-browning.
- Topping Consistency: The topping should be spread evenly over the cakes to ensure uniform flavor in every bite.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before slicing to maintain their shape and texture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cassava cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Filipino flavors and traditions. With its rich, coconut-infused taste and hearty texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of something new, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction and enjoyment. Embrace the warmth and sweetness of Filipino cuisine with this delicious cassava cake recipe!
