Poppy seed cake with coconut and chocolate glaze

I propose a delicious recipe for a poppy seed, coconut, and chocolate glazed cake that will surely become your favorite! This cake is not only an explosion of flavors but also a perfect combination of textures, with a fluffy base, a smooth cream, and a decadent glaze. Whether you serve it at a party, at a festive meal, or simply to enjoy a sweet moment with loved ones, this cake will bring joy and smiles.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 16

Ingredients

For the base:
- 8 egg whites
- 250 g sugar
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 50 g poppy seeds
- 100 g coconut
- 1 vanilla essence

For the cream:
- 1 packet of vanilla pudding
- 300 ml milk
- 8 egg yolks
- 250 g sugar (about 1 cup)
- 125 g margarine (half a packet)

For the glaze:
- 7 tablespoons sugar
- 50 ml water
- 5 tablespoons cocoa
- 50 g margarine
- 2 packets of biscuits (such as picnic or coconut cookies)

Recipe history

The poppy seed and coconut cake is a dessert that combines tradition and innovation, often found in family recipes. Poppy seeds, with their nutritional properties and distinct taste, are lovingly used in various sweet dishes. Coconut, with its tropical aroma, perfectly complements this combination, providing a crunchy texture. Therefore, this cake becomes not just a treat but a true culinary experience.

Step by step

Step 1: Preparing the base
1. Start by preparing the oven. Preheat it to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt using an electric mixer until you achieve a stiff and glossy foam.
3. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until it completely dissolves and you obtain a firm mixture.
4. Carefully fold in the poppy seeds, vanilla essence, coconut flakes, and flour, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon to maintain the aeration of the mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and level the surface.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the base passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it's done).

Step 2: Preparing the cream
1. In a saucepan, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until they become a smooth cream.
2. Add the milk and pudding powder, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat and add the margarine, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
4. Let the cream cool slightly before spreading it evenly over the baked and cooled base.

Step 3: The biscuits
1. Arrange the biscuits side by side over the vanilla cream. They will add a crunchy note and a pleasant contrast of textures.

Step 4: Preparing the glaze
1. In a small saucepan, add the water, sugar, and cocoa. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the margarine and let it boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour the warm glaze over the biscuits, ensuring they are evenly covered.
4. Sprinkle coconut flakes on top for a pleasing appearance and enhanced aroma.

Step 5: Cooling and serving
1. Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
2. Once cooled and set, cut the cake into pieces the size of the biscuits and serve with a smile!

Helpful tips
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a uniform consistency.
- You can experiment with different types of biscuits, such as chocolate or whole grain, to adapt the cake to your preferences.
- If you want to add a note of freshness, you can add lemon or orange zest to the vanilla cream.
- This cake keeps well in the refrigerator, so you can prepare it a day in advance of serving.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This cake contains approximately 250 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used. Poppy seeds are an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, and healthy fatty acids, while coconut adds fiber and antioxidants. Consuming this cake in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I replace margarine with butter? Yes, you can use butter instead of margarine for a richer taste.
- What other ingredients can I add to the base? You can add ground nuts or dried fruits for a different texture and taste.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar in the base and cream for a more balanced flavor.

Serving suggestions
Serve this cake alongside a cup of black coffee or fruit tea, which will perfectly complement the sweet and rich flavors. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit sauce could add a refreshing note.

Possible variations
- Chocolate cake: Replace some of the flour with cocoa powder to achieve a chocolate base.
- Vegan cake: Use vegan egg whites and margarine, and for the cream, you can opt for almond milk and an egg substitute.

This poppy seed, coconut, and chocolate glazed cake is more than just a dessert; it is a true feast for the senses. Don't hesitate to try it and enjoy every bite!