Description:
Buddine with Coconut and Milk Sweet Cake is a decadent dessert inspired by traditional coconut and milk-based sweets. This soft, moist cake is infused with the rich flavors of coconut and milk, giving it a tropical and creamy essence. Perfect for a festive occasion or a sweet treat after dinner, this cake is a delightful balance of sweetness and coconut aroma, sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Origin:
Buddine, a term used in various parts of the world to refer to soft, pudding-like cakes, is widely popular in tropical regions where coconut and milk are abundant ingredients. The fusion of coconut and milk brings out a rich, velvety texture, commonly found in Asian, Latin American, and Caribbean cuisines.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (or desiccated coconut)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (or regular milk)
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
For the Milk Syrup:
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on desired sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (for garnish)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon rum (for added flavor, optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (for a hint of spice)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as cashews or almonds, for extra texture)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or a loaf pan, or line the pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and shredded coconut. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the coconut milk and whole milk. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until the batter is smooth.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
4. Prepare the Milk Syrup:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the milk syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and sugar (if using).
- Heat over low to medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is heated through and the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, poke small holes all over the top using a skewer or fork. This will allow the milk syrup to soak into the cake and create a moist, creamy texture.
- Pour the milk syrup over the warm cake, allowing it to absorb. Let the cake sit for about 15 minutes to soak in the syrup.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the top of the cake with shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
- Slice the cake and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success:
- Coconut milk: Using full-fat coconut milk adds a richer, creamier flavor to the cake. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with regular milk, but the taste won’t be as rich.
- Resting time: Allow the cake to absorb the milk syrup for at least 15 minutes to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
- Extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of rum or cinnamon to the milk syrup for an extra layer of flavor.
Recommendations:
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a relaxing afternoon snack.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- This cake also makes for a lovely gift for any special occasion, such as birthdays or holidays.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Potassium: 200mg
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
