Maasai-Inspired Sweet Delight

Ingredients

In this Maasai-inspired adaptation, we have replaced the traditional dulce de leche filling with a combination of sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream, adding a tropical twist to the dish. Additionally, we have incorporated aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon into the sponge cake to infuse it with Maasai flavors. The topping of caramelized bananas and toasted coconut flakes adds a unique touch that reflects the Maasai's love for fresh and natural ingredients. We alse have the original recipe for Postre Balcarce, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can (14oz/400g) sweetened condensed milk 1 can (14oz/400g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut cream 1 cup (240ml) coconut cream
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened coconut flakes, toasted 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened coconut flakes, toasted

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 16g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 64g, 45g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
6. 6.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely.
8. 8.
   In a bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream until well combined.
9. 9.
   Cut the cooled cake horizontally into two equal layers.
10. 10.
    Spread a generous amount of the sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream mixture on the bottom layer of the cake.
11. 11.
    Place the sliced bananas on top of the cream mixture.
12. 12.
    Place the second layer of cake on top and spread the remaining cream mixture over it.
13. 13.
    Sprinkle the toasted coconut flakes on top of the cake.
14. 14.
    Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut flakes — Toast the coconut flakes in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
• Sweetened condensed milk — Ensure the sweetened condensed milk is well mixed before using it in the recipe to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Bananas — Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture in the caramelized topping.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves to the cake batter.
• If you prefer a stronger coconut flavor, substitute coconut milk for regular milk in the cake batter.
• Serve the Maasai-inspired Sweet Delight chilled for the best taste and texture.
• Experiment with different fruits like mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
• Drizzle some honey over the top of the cake before serving for added sweetness.

Serving advice

Serve the Maasai-inspired Sweet Delight in generous slices on dessert plates. Garnish each slice with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes and a fresh banana slice for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the cake with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon just before serving. Place the cake on a decorative cake stand or serving platter to showcase its vibrant layers.