Yogurt and coconut cake

Yogurt and coconut cake: a soft and fragrant delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-45 minutes
Total time: 45-60 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

Who doesn't love the sweet and creamy aroma of a fluffy cake? The yogurt and coconut cake is a simple yet absolutely delicious dessert that combines the moist texture of yogurt with the exotic flavor of coconut. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from parties to a simple weekend afternoon when you want to treat yourself to something sweet.

The history of yogurt cakes takes us back to cooking traditions that value simple and accessible ingredients. Yogurt, used as a moist ingredient, not only provides a unique texture but also a subtle flavor, while coconut adds a touch of exoticism. This recipe is a perfect example of how common ingredients can be transformed into something truly special.

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 cups of flour
- 4 cups of sugar
- 3 cups of yogurt (preferably creamy)
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 package of margarine (about 250 grams)
- 1 cup of grated coconut

Ingredient tips:

- Choose a quality yogurt, as it will influence the cake's texture. Greek yogurt is an excellent choice due to its creaminess.
- When it comes to sugar, you can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized taste and a deeper hue.
- Coconut can be used either grated or in flakes, depending on your preference. Coconut flakes will add a crunchier texture.
- If you want to add a touch of vanilla, a teaspoon of vanilla extract will enhance the cake's aroma.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). This is an essential step to ensure even baking.

2. Mixing dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the 4 cups of flour with the baking powder. This mixture will help the cake rise.

3. Combining wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the 3 eggs with the sugar (4 cups) until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color. Add the yogurt and gently mix until everything is well combined.

4. Combining ingredients: Add the wet ingredient mixture to the bowl with flour and mix well. It is important not to overmix; just enough so that no flour streaks are visible.

5. Preparing the pan: Line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the batter evenly into the pan.

6. Preparing the topping: In a small bowl, mix the last cup of sugar with a cup of grated coconut. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the batter in the pan.

7. Baking the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 30-45 minutes. Check if the cake is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

8. Finishing with yogurt glaze: While the cake cools, melt the margarine and let it cool slightly. Mix it with the last cup of yogurt to form a creamy glaze. Once the cake has cooled slightly, pour the glaze over it, allowing it to soak in.

9. Final cooling: This step is crucial! Let the cake cool completely, then cover it and refrigerate it overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

10. Serving: The next day, cut the cake into squares and serve it. It is delicious and ideal alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

Nutritional benefits:

- Yogurt provides a source of protein and probiotics, beneficial for digestion.
- Coconut is a good source of fiber and healthy fats, which can help maintain satiety.
- This cake, while delicious, is also a healthier option due to the natural ingredients compared to other more processed desserts.

Possible variations:

- Add some dark chocolate chips or fresh fruits (like blueberries or raspberries) to the batter for an even richer flavor.
- Replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour to add extra fiber.
- For a more intense coconut flavor, you can also add a few drops of coconut essence.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I substitute margarine with butter?
Yes, you can use butter, but the cake will have a richer taste and a different texture.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the sugar amount by half a cup, but be aware that sweetness will also come from the yogurt.

3. Is the cake suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using soy or coconut yogurt, replacing the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds or banana.

The yogurt and coconut cake is not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience that brings a smile to anyone's face. So put on your chef's gloves and get ready to enjoy a delicacy that will surely become your family's favorite!