The first time I tasted cassava cake, I was utterly captivated by its rich, decadent flavors. Each bite transported me to a sun-soaked kitchen, where the enticing scent of coconut mingled with the sweetness of condensed milk. This delightful dessert is a remarkable blend of textures: crispy on the outside, yet wonderfully moist within.
Whether you find yourself needing a unique dish for a potluck, or simply craving something homemade that warms the soul, cassava cake fits the bill perfectly. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that manages to bring friends and family together, all while being incredibly simple to whip up.
With ingredients you can easily find, this recipe combines grated cassava, creamy coconut milk, and a delightful custard topping that might make you rethink dessert forever. Join me as we dive into this quick and scrumptious cassava cake that will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire!
Why will you adore CASSAVA CAKE?
Delightful in flavor: This cake features a delicious harmony of sweet milks and coconut, creating a unique tropical taste that dances on your palate.
Unforgettable textures: With a crispy exterior and a luscious, moist center, every bite offers a satisfying experience.
Simple to prepare: You don’t need advanced baking skills! This recipe requires just a few steps to achieve homemade perfection.
Versatile in serving: Whether as a dessert for family gatherings or a sweet treat for yourself, it suits any occasion beautifully.
Comforting indulgence: This cassava cake is sure to warm your heart and soul, making it a cherished addition to your recipe collection.
CASSAVA CAKE Ingredients
• Prepare to indulge in this delightful cassava cake with these essential ingredients!
For the Cake
- Grated cassava – this key ingredient gives the cake its unique texture and flavor.
- Condensed milk – adds sweetness and a creamy richness that elevates the cake.
- Evaporated milk – brings additional creaminess to the batter, enhancing the overall taste.
- Coconut milk – infuses a tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Eggs – provide structure and moisture, ensuring a tender cake.
- White sugar – balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the dish.
- Salt – helps to amplify the sweetness and rounds out the flavors nicely.
For the Custard Topping
- Coconut cream – adds a luxurious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s texture.
- Condensed milk – you’ll be using this again for the topping, ensuring a rich flavor throughout.
- Egg yolks – create a velvety custard that adds a decadent final layer to your cake.
Optional Topping
- Grated cheddar cheese – a surprising twist that brings a savory contrast to the sweet cake, enhancing its appeal.
This cassava cake is a delightful treat that combines these wonderful ingredients to create a dessert unlike any other!
How to Make Cassava Cake
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly and gives it that perfect golden brown crust we all love.
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Combine grated cassava, condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, eggs, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir together until everything is blended well and you smell that sweet coconut aroma.
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Pour the batter into a greased baking pan. Make sure to spread it out evenly for consistent baking, giving it a smooth surface that will hold the custard topping beautifully.
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Bake for about 45-50 minutes until set and lightly browned. The edges should pull away from the sides of the pan, and the center should bounce back gently when touched.
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Mix coconut cream, condensed milk, and egg yolks in another bowl for the custard topping. This luscious mix will become the crowning glory of your cake, adding that rich creamy layer.
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Pour the custard topping over the baked cake evenly. The warmth of the cake will help it seep down a bit, creating a fabulous texture.
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Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top, if using. This optional step adds a delightful contrast, both in flavor and texture, bringing an exciting twist to this traditional cake.
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Bake again for an additional 15-20 minutes until the custard is set. The custard should look slightly jiggly but firm, and the cheese should be lightly golden.
Optional: Serve warm or chilled, topped with a scoop of fresh coconut ice cream.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Cassava Cake
Perfect Texture: Ensure that the grated cassava is well-drained before mixing to avoid excess moisture in your cake.
Low and Slow: Baking at a lower temperature can help the cake cook evenly, preventing the edges from browning too quickly while the center remains uncooked.
Custard Consistency: Whip the custard topping until smooth; lumps can create an uneven texture that won’t set properly on your cake.
Cheese Balance: If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on just before the final bake to prevent it from burning, ensuring it adds flavor without overpowering the sweet notes of the cassava cake.
Cool Time: Allow the cake to cool before slicing. This waiting period helps the flavors meld and the cake to set properly, enhancing your overall enjoyment of this beautiful cassava cake!
CASSAVA CAKE Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful spins on your cassava cake—each one adds a unique touch to this tropical treat!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute all dairy with coconut cream and almond milk for a rich, creamy vegan option that still delivers indulgent flavor.
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Sweeteners: Try using honey or agave syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetening option, enhancing the cake’s tropical essence.
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Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter to introduce warm, aromatic spices that elevate the cake’s flavor profile.
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Fruit-Infused: Fold in some mashed ripe bananas or pineapple chunks for a fruity twist that adds moisture and sweetness to your cake.
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Nutty: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or cashews, into the batter for an added crunch and delightful texture contrast.
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Chocolate Delight: Mix in cocoa powder or chocolate chips to create a decadent chocolate cassava cake that satisfies any sweet tooth.
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Zesty: For a refreshing zing, add lemon or lime zest to the batter, balancing sweetness with a bright citrus note.
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Savory: Replace the cheddar cheese with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a savory touch, creating a unique flavor combination that surprises and delights!
Make Ahead Options
These cassava cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients (grated cassava, milks, eggs, sugar, and salt) and storing it in the refrigerator. For the custard topping, blend the coconut cream, condensed milk, and egg yolks, and refrigerate separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the greased pan, bake for about 45-50 minutes, then add the custard topping before the final bake. This way, you’ll enjoy that rich, comforting taste of cassava cake with minimal effort on your busy weekdays!
How to Store and Freeze CASSAVA CAKE
Room Temperature: Allow the cassava cake to cool completely before storing. It can sit at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This helps maintain its moisture and flavors without drying out.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy your cassava cake later, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. This preserves its delicious taste.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover cassava cake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What to Serve with CASSAVA CAKE?
The warmth of cassava cake invites a medley of delightful accompaniments that enhance its tropical charm.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate, balancing the cake’s richness with refreshing bites. Imagine the burst of juicy pineapple and zest of citrus complementing the sweet cake perfectly.
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Coconut Ice Cream: Soft, creamy, and tropical; this delightful scoop pairs seamlessly with your cassava cake, offering a delicious contrast in temperature and texture. Just a spoonful transports you to a sunny beach!
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Pineapple Salsa: The tangy sweetness of this salsa cuts through the cake’s richness, adding a zesty freshness that enlivens each bite. It’s like a little party in your mouth with every forkful!
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this classic companion adds a soft, airy element that accentuates the cake’s dense texture. Consider sprinkling it with a touch of grated coconut for added flair.
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Mint Tea: This soothing herbal tea offers a refreshing finish, making it a great beverage to cleanse the palate after indulging in the sweet dessert. Its herbal notes will enhance the coconut flavors beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of chocolate brings an indulgent touch, enhancing the flavors of the cake’s custard topping while creating a rich, irresistible treat. It’s an elegant twist that can surprise and delight!
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Pecan Topping: For a nutty crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans on top. Their earthy flavor adds depth and a satisfying texture contrast against the creamy cake.
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Tropical Smoothie: Blend up your favorite tropical fruits with a splash of coconut water for a refreshing drink that mirrors the cake’s flavor profile. This vibrant drink is a great way to complement the dessert.
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Espresso: A shot of bold espresso balances the sweetness of the cassava cake beautifully. The rich, deep coffee flavor serves as a perfect counterpoint to the decadent dessert.
Each of these pairings will create an experience that elevates your cassava cake from a delicious treat to a full-fledged feast that tantalizes every sense!
CASSAVA CAKE Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cassava?
Absolutely! When selecting cassava, look for firm roots without any dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be smooth and intact, indicating freshness. Avoid any roots that feel soft to the touch or have any signs of mold.
How should I store leftover cassava cake?
Very simple! Allow the cassava cake to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days; however, for extended freshness, it’s best stored in the refrigerator, where it will stay delicious for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze cassava cake?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your cassava cake, start by slicing it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped slices in a resealable plastic bag or aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.
What should I do if my cassava cake cracks on top?
If your cake cracks during baking, don’t fret! This can happen if the oven temperature is too high. Ensure you keep an eye on your cake and adjust the temperature lower if needed. Another tip is to rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking. If it cracks, simply cover it with the custard topping; it’ll be delicious regardless!
Are there any dietary concerns with cassava cake?
While cassava itself is gluten-free, be mindful if you or your guests have specific allergies, like dairy from the condensed milk and coconut milk. As a wonderful alternative, you can use non-dairy versions of condensed milk and coconut products to cater to vegan diets. Always check labels to ensure safety, especially for those with allergies.
How long does cassava cake last?
A well-stored cassava cake can last about 1 week in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember, its texture and flavor are best when enjoyed fresh. It’s a delightful treat that’s sure to be a favorite!
Delicious Cassava Cake That Will Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine grated cassava, condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, eggs, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir well.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes until set and lightly browned.
- Mix coconut cream, condensed milk, and egg yolks in another bowl for the custard topping.
- Pour the custard topping over the baked cake evenly.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top, if using.
- Bake again for an additional 15-20 minutes until the custard is set.