Fragrance from the islands
Cake "Island Fragrance" – A Fluffy and Aromatic Delicacy
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 12
Enjoy a culinary journey with every bite of this aromatic cake that brings a touch of the islands to each slice. This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the unmistakable flavor of vanilla and rum, in a fluffy cake that will delight your senses.
Ingredients
- For the batter:
- 4 eggs
- 65 ml of oil
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 100 ml of water
- 1 vanilla pod
- 1 pinch of salt
- 70 g of cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons of coconut
- 180 g of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- For the topping:
- 200 g of pineapple (preferably well-drained canned rings)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 rum essence
- For the meringue:
- 4 egg whites
- 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons of powdered sugar
Short History
Pineapple cakes have become popular in many cultures due to their versatility and sweet-tart flavor. This recipe was inspired by the traditions of using tropical fruits in desserts, combining them with simple ingredients to create a memorable culinary experience.
Step by Step
1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a uniform and fluffy batter.
2. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and the 7 tablespoons of sugar until you get a light and fluffy foam. This step is essential for aerating the batter, which will lead to a fluffier cake.
3. Adding flavors: Scrape the seeds from the vanilla pod and add them along with the rum essence to the egg mixture. These flavors will give the cake an inviting taste.
4. Incorporating oil and water: Gradually add the oil and then the water, mixing gently to avoid losing air from the foam.
5. Mixing dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the cornstarch with the flour, coconut, and baking powder. This combination will give the cake a light texture and a tropical flavor.
6. Combining mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, taking care to avoid lumps. Use a spatula to bring the ingredients together without losing air from the batter.
7. Baking: Pour the batter into a lined baking pan and bake at 180°C for 25-30 minutes. Check with a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
8. Preparing the candied pineapple: Cut the pineapple into very small pieces. Place it in a saucepan with the 4 tablespoons of sugar and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it becomes candied and coated in a short syrup. This step adds a delicious and moist note to the cake.
9. Preparing the meringue: Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar until a white foam forms. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve a glossy meringue.
10. Final assembly: Once the cake has cooled slightly, add the candied pineapple on top, then spread the meringue evenly. Return the cake to the oven for another 15-20 minutes at 150°C, until the meringue turns golden.
11. Cooling and serving: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into servings and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for an extra touch of flavor.
Practical Tips
- You can customize your cake according to your preferences! You can add chopped nuts or chocolate to the batter for an even richer taste.
- For an even more intense flavor, you can infuse the oil with lemon or orange zest.
- If you want a gluten-free version, you can replace the flour with gluten-free flour, ensuring you use a gluten-free baking powder.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to cook it a little longer to candy it properly.
2. How long can the cake be stored?
The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cooling will help enhance the flavors.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add the meringue before freezing. You can add it after thawing.
Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This cake has approximately 200 calories per serving (without toppings). It is a good source of carbohydrates, and the pineapple brings vitamins and antioxidants, being beneficial for the immune system. The coconut adds extra fiber and healthy fats.
Delicious Combinations
The "Island Fragrance" cake pairs perfectly with:
- A cup of aromatic coffee or fruit tea
- A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream
- A warm chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast
In conclusion, this cake recipe is more than just a dessert; it is a cooking experience that brings joy in every moment. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, your cake will surely be a success! Enjoy!
Ingredients: 4 eggs, 65ml of oil, 7 teaspoons of sugar, 100ml of water, 1 vanilla pod, 1 pinch of salt, 200g of pineapple (I used drained canned slices), 4 tablespoons of sugar, 1 essence of rum, 70g of cornstarch, 3 tablespoons of coconut, 180g of flour, 1 baking powder, 4 egg whites, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, 5 tablespoons of powdered sugar.
