Fluffy

Fluffy Coconut Cake, a delight that combines enticing flavors and contrasting textures, is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family celebration, a gathering with friends, or simply a personal treat. This recipe will not only please your taste buds but also bring a touch of joy to every bite. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious cake step by step.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 12-16 servings

Ingredients

For the layers:
- 500 g flour
- 150 g sugar
- 100 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for a hint of chocolate)
- 1 egg
- 70 ml milk

For the coconut cream:
- 6 egg whites
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g shredded coconut
- 150 ml hot milk

For the egg yolk cream:
- 6 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons cornstarch
- 250 g sugar
- 300 ml milk
- 1 stick of butter (about 200 g)

Preparing the layers

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, add the margarine (or softened butter) and sugar, and cream them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious base of the cake.

2. Add wet ingredients: Incorporate the egg, cocoa powder, baking powder, and milk. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.

3. Add flour: Gradually add the flour and mix until you obtain a smooth dough. It’s important not to over-mix to keep the layers fluffy.

4. Divide the dough: Split the dough into two equal parts and shape them into flat discs. These will be the layers of the cake.

5. Bake the layers: Place each layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20 minutes each, or until golden brown. Check them occasionally to prevent drying out.

Preparing the coconut cream

1. Whip the egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the sugar until you achieve a stiff, glossy meringue. It’s essential that the bowl and utensils are completely dry for perfect texture.

2. Soak the coconut: In another bowl, pour the hot milk over the shredded coconut and let it cool. This will help hydrate the coconut and enhance its flavor.

3. Incorporate coconut into the meringue: Once the coconut mixture has cooled, gradually add it to the egg white meringue, gently folding with a spatula to retain the airiness.

Assembling the cake

1. First layer: Place the first layer of dough on a serving platter and spread the coconut cream evenly over it.

2. Add the second layer: Place the second layer of dough on top, gently pressing to secure it. Use a fork to poke a few holes in the top layer to allow steam to escape during baking.

3. Bake the cake: Put the cake in the oven and bake at 180°C for about 40 minutes. Check the cake occasionally to ensure it doesn't burn.

Preparing the egg yolk cream

1. Cook the cream: In a heatproof bowl, combine the egg yolks with the sugar and cornstarch. Gradually add the milk, mixing well. Place the bowl over a double boiler and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.

2. Cool the cream: Once the cream has thickened, let it cool slightly, then incorporate the cubed butter, stirring until it melts completely and the cream becomes smooth and velvety.

Finalizing the cake

1. Add the egg yolk cream: Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the egg yolk cream over the top layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.

2. Decoration: For an appealing look, grate chocolate on top of the cream or sprinkle shredded coconut. This detail will not only enhance the aesthetic but also add extra flavor.

3. Final cooling: Allow the cake to chill for a few hours or ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and the textures to set.

Serving and variations

Fluffy Coconut Cake is delicious both chilled and at room temperature. You can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic coffee, which will perfectly complement the sweetness of the cake. You can also experiment with various flavors, such as adding vanilla or almond extract to the egg yolk cream for a distinctive note.

Helpful tips

- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a uniform dough.
- Don't skip the holes in the layer: These will help prevent excessive moisture in the cake.
- Cooling is essential: Allowing the cake to cool completely before adding the egg yolk cream is crucial to avoid melting it.

Nutritional benefits

This coconut cake is not just a delicious treat but also a source of energy due to its coconut content, which is rich in fiber and healthy fats. Additionally, the eggs provide quality protein, and its sweet flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I replace margarine with butter? Absolutely! Butter will provide a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- How can I store the cake? Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for several days.
- Is it possible to use other flavors? Certainly! You can add flavors like orange or lemon to vary the taste.

Now you are ready to venture into the delicious world of Fluffy Coconut Cake. Whether you make it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will surely bring smiles and joy. Enjoy!