Vanuatu Coconut Delight

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lime Zest of 1 lime
• 1 cup (100g) freshly grated coconut (or unsweetened desiccated coconut) 1 cup (100g) freshly grated coconut (or unsweetened desiccated coconut)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 25g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and lime zest.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. 5.
   Fold in the freshly grated coconut.
6. 6.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
7. 7.
   Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
9. 9.
   Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Freshly grated coconut — If you can't find freshly grated coconut, you can substitute it with unsweetened desiccated coconut. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle the cooled cake with a simple lime glaze made by mixing lime juice and powdered sugar.
• Toast some coconut flakes and sprinkle them on top of the cake for added texture and visual appeal.
• Serve the cake with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Make sure to use freshly grated coconut for the best taste and texture.

Serving advice

Serve Vanuatu Coconut Delight at room temperature or slightly warmed. It pairs well with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tropical fruit-infused tea.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving. You can also garnish it with lime slices and a sprig of fresh mint.