COCONUT CAKE

Ingredients

Coconut sponge biscuit

5 eggs

165 grams (5.8 ounces) flour

50 grams (1.75 ounces) butter

170 grams (6 ounces) sugar

5 grams (0.2 ounces) baking powder

A pinch of salt

25 grams (0.9 ounces) coconut flakes

White chocolate ganache

100 grams (3.55 ounces) white chocolate

50 grams (1.75 ounces) cream

Coconut custard

250 grams (8.8 ounces) cream cheese

200 grams (7.05 ounces) mascarpone

90 grams (3.15 ounces) cream

120 grams (4.25 ounces) powdered sugar

30 grams (1.05 ounces) coconut flakes

Soaking

Almond/coconut/vanilla milk to taste

Sugar syrup to taste

Syrup

100 grams (3.55 ounces) water

100 grams (3.55 ounces) sugar

Custard

300 grams (10.6 ounces) cream cheese

250 grams (8.8 ounces) mascarpone

120 grams (4.25 ounces) powdered sugar

50 grams (1.75 ounces) coconut flakes

Vanilla to taste

Covering custard

200 grams (7.05 ounces) cream cheese

50 grams (1.75 ounces) cream

50 grams (1.75 ounces) powdered sugar

Chopped almonds to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Line the bottom of your mold (16-18 cm | 6.3 to 7 inches) with baking paper.

Step 2

Tip: This helps prevent the sponge from sticking to the mold.

Step 3

Sift flour, baking powder, salt, and coconut flakes into a bowl. Mix well to combine.

Step 4

Tip: Sifting prevents lumps and evenly distributes all the dry ingredients.

Step 5

Melt the butter in the microwave and let it cool.

Step 6

Separate the eggs into whites and yolks.

Step 7

In a mixer bowl, add egg whites and 90 grams (3.15 ounces) of sugar. Whip at maximum speed until dense, which takes about 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 8

While the whites are whipping, whisk the yolks with the remaining sugar until it turns fluffy and pale.

Step 9

Tip: This helps in incorporating more air, making the batter lighter.

Step 10

Fold the whipped egg whites into the yolks mixture gently using a spatula.

Step 11

Add the dry mixture gradually, followed by the melted butter. Mix carefully to not deflate the batter.

Step 12

Tip: Use a folding motion to keep the air in the batter.

Step 13

Pour the batter into the prepared mold and bake at 180°C (356°F) for 45 to 50 minutes.

Step 14

To prepare the ganache, place the white chocolate and cream in the microwave and heat in 10-second pulses. Stir each time.

Step 15

Once melted, pour the ganache into a pastry bag.

Step 16

Tip: Use a double boiler if you prefer not to use a microwave.

Step 17

For the coconut custard, whisk all the ingredients in a mixer bowl at maximum speed until the mixture is dense.

Step 18

For the custard, do the same as above for another set of ingredients.

Step 19

To assemble the cake, place the first biscuit layer on a dish and soak it with milk and syrup.

Step 20

Tip: Avoid over soaking to prevent the biscuit from becoming too soggy.

Step 21

Spread the coconut custard evenly, leaving a dent in the middle for the ganache.

Step 22

Fill the dent with the ganache, then sprinkle with nuts and grated chocolate if desired.

Step 23

Repeat for the second layer.

Step 24

Place the top biscuit layer, soak it lightly, and cover with a thin layer of custard.

Step 25

Tip: This custard layer will act as a glue for the covering custard.

Step 26

Apply the remaining custard to the sides of the cake.

Step 27

Finish with a covering layer of the finishing custard, smoothing it as evenly as possible.

Step 28

Refrigerate the cake for 1 hour.

Step 29

Before serving, sprinkle with coconut flakes and decorate as desired. Bon Appétit!

Servings

Once your splendid coconut cake is ready, it’s time to dream up some delightful serving suggestions! 🍰

For a stunning presentation, consider adorning the top with fresh berries or edible flowers. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the visual appeal of your cake. 🥥🌸

Hosting a cozy tea party? Pair slices of this cake with a chilled glass of coconut milk or a hot cup of jasmine tea. The delicate flavors will complement each other perfectly, making every bite an experience to cherish.

Want to go over the top? Serve a slice of this cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The combination of creamy textures is pure bliss! 🍨🍰

Pro tip: The cake tastes even better the next day! Let it rest in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to meld together. It makes those moments of indulgence all the more memorable. 🎂✨

Equipment

Mixer

A stand mixer or hand mixer will help you achieve the perfect texture for both the sponge and custards. Make sure to use the whisk attachment for best results.

16-18 cm (6.3 to 7 inch) Cake Mold

An appropriately sized cake mold ensures even baking. Lining the bottom with baking paper can prevent sticking.

Microwave

While melting the butter and chocolate, short, controlled pulses will prevent scorching.

Spatulas

Use rubber spatulas for gently folding ingredients and spreading custards evenly.

Pastry Bag

A pastry bag makes pouring the ganache easier and more precise, leading to a beautifully layered cake.

Variations

Looking for gluten-free or vegan variations? We've got you covered! 🌱🌟

Gluten-Free: Simply swap out the regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free. The result will be just as delicious!

Vegan: Replace the eggs with a mixture of flax seeds and water (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg). Use vegan butter, dairy-free cream, and coconut cream cheese or a similar substitute for the cream cheese and mascarpone. 🍰🥥

Embrace these variations to cater to everyone's dietary needs without compromising on flavor or texture. Happy baking! 🌈👩‍🍳

Faq

How can I make sure my sponge cake is fluffy?
Ensure the egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks and carefully fold the ingredients to maintain the airiness.
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use caster sugar for a finer texture or coconut sugar for a deeper flavor. Adjust the sweetness to your preference.
My ganache is too runny! What do I do?
If your ganache is too runny, let it cool in the fridge for a bit until it thickens to the desired consistency.
Can I add other flavors to the custard?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with a hint of lemon zest or a splash of almond extract for an added dimension of flavor.
What's the best way to level my cake layers?
Use a cake leveler or a serrated knife. Make sure your cake is completely cool before trimming it for a smooth, even surface.
How can I store the leftover cake?
Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.