São Toméan Ring of Delight

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the Italian Anello di Monaco is transformed into a São Toméan delight by incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The original recipe is infused with the tropical essence of São Tomé and Príncipe by adding cocoa and coconut, which are widely used in the cuisine of the islands. This adaptation brings a unique twist to the traditional Italian dish, creating a dessert that captures the flavors and spirit of São Toméan cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Anello di Monaco, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a ring-shaped cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the coconut milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
6. 6.
   Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. 8.
   Once cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture.
• Cocoa powder — Choose a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra tropical twist, you can add a tablespoon of rum to the batter.
• Serve the cake with a scoop of coconut ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert.
• If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, you can add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter.
• To make the cake even more visually appealing, garnish it with toasted coconut flakes before serving.
• This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Serving advice

Serve the São Toméan Ring of Delight as a centerpiece dessert for special occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Slice it into wedges and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the São Toméan Ring of Delight, you can place a few fresh tropical fruits, such as sliced mangoes or passion fruit, around the cake. This adds a pop of color and complements the tropical flavors of the dessert.