Coconut and apple cake

Coconut and Apple Cake: A Meadow of Flavors and Textures

I invite you to delight in a delicious, simple, and quick recipe that combines the sweetness of apples with the tropical aroma of coconut. This coconut and apple cake is not just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will transport you to a meadow of flavors. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a fluffy texture and an irresistible taste!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

A brief story about coconut and apple cakes
Coconut cakes have a long history, often associated with joy and celebrations. Coconut, with its distinctive aroma, has been used in various cultures to sweeten desserts. Apples bring a note of freshness and a perfect balance between sweet and sour. Together, these ingredients create a cake that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also evokes pleasant memories.

Necessary ingredients
- 150 g sugar
- 130 g butter (at room temperature)
- 3 eggs
- 200 ml milk (ideally whole milk)
- 80 g coconut (grated)
- 160 g flour
- 1 baking powder
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 3 large apples (preferably sweet-sour apples)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the coconut milk
Start by placing the milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the grated coconut to the milk and stir well. When the milk begins to boil, turn off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. This will allow the coconut flavor to infuse into the milk, resulting in a delicious base for the cake.

2. Butter and sugar cream
In a large bowl, place the softened butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the two ingredients together until you achieve a fluffy, light-colored cream. This step is crucial as the air incorporated into the butter will help the cake to be fluffy.

3. Adding the eggs
Add the eggs one by one to the butter cream, mixing well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This will ensure a smooth texture of the batter.

4. Incorporating the coconut milk
Once the eggs are well integrated, add the coconut milk (which has been allowed to cool slightly) to the mixture. Stir gently until well combined.

5. Flour and flavors
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and vanilla sugar. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid lumps. It is essential not to overmix the batter to maintain its fluffy texture.

6. The apples
Peel the apples and cut them into small cubes. Fold them into the cake batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The apples will add pleasant moisture and a contrast in texture.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 175°C. Prepare a baking tray (approximately 20x30 cm) with baking paper. Pour the mixture into the tray and level the surface. Bake the cake for about 60 minutes or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test (when inserted in the middle, it should come out clean).

8. Cooling and serving
Once baked, let the cake cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can dust it with powdered sugar before cutting it into squares. It is delicious both warm and cold!

Practical tips
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature to incorporate well.
- If you want an even more intense coconut flavor, you can use coconut milk instead of regular milk.
- Apples can be replaced with other fruits, such as pears or peaches, for a unique twist!
- You can also add a handful of chopped nuts or almonds for extra crunch.

Nutritional benefits
This cake contains coconut, which is rich in fiber and healthy fatty acids. Apples provide a dose of vitamins and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for a healthier dessert. Each serving has approximately 220 calories, making it a decent option for a sweet snack.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use canned apples? Yes, you can use canned apples, but make sure they are well drained to avoid excess moisture.
- How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for a longer period.
- What drinks pair well with this cake? A cup of black tea or a cup of coffee pairs perfectly with this dessert. Additionally, a fresh fruit smoothie would be a wonderful choice!

Savor every piece of this coconut and apple cake, allowing yourself to be carried away by its delicate flavors and fluffy texture. It is a dessert that combines tradition with innovation, perfect for moments of indulgence or gatherings with loved ones!