Ceredigion-inspired Raindrop Cakes

Ingredients

While the original bolinhos de chuva are deep-fried dough balls coated in sugar and cinnamon, these Ceredigion-inspired raindrop cakes take a different approach. Instead of dough, we use a jelly-like mixture made from agar agar, a natural gelling agent derived from seaweed. The flavors are also adapted to reflect the local ingredients found in Ceredigion, giving the cakes a distinct taste that celebrates the region's culinary heritage. We alse have the original recipe for Bolinhos de chuva, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) elderflower cordial 1/4 cup (60ml) elderflower cordial
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons (10g) agar agar powder 2 teaspoons (10g) agar agar powder
• Edible flowers, for garnish (optional) Edible flowers, for garnish (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 25g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the water, elderflower cordial, honey, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Sprinkle the agar agar powder over the liquid mixture and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes until the powder is fully dissolved.
3. 3.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for 5 minutes.
4. 4.
   Pour the mixture into raindrop-shaped silicone molds or small round molds.
5. 5.
   Allow the cakes to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
6. 6.
   Once set, carefully remove the raindrop cakes from the molds and garnish with edible flowers, if desired.
7. 7.
   Serve chilled and enjoy the delicate flavors of Ceredigion in every bite.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Agar agar powder — Make sure to whisk continuously when adding agar agar powder to the liquid mixture to ensure it dissolves completely and evenly.

Tips & Tricks

• For a floral twist, you can substitute elderflower cordial with lavender syrup.
• Experiment with different flavors by using different fruit juices instead of lemon juice.
• Add a touch of elegance by serving the raindrop cakes on a bed of edible flower petals.
• To enhance the visual appeal, you can add a drop of food coloring to the mixture before pouring it into the molds.
• If you don't have raindrop-shaped molds, you can use small round molds or even ice cube trays.

Serving advice

Serve these delicate raindrop cakes as a light and refreshing dessert after a Ceredigion-inspired meal. They pair well with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of sparkling elderflower drink.

Presentation advice

Arrange the raindrop cakes on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh edible flowers. The translucent appearance of the cakes will create an elegant and visually stunning presentation.