Embark on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of ARUBA, where tradition meets innovation in the irresistible Bolo di Cashupete – a tropical masterpiece. This decadent dessert, crafted with rich cashew nuts and aromatic spices, embodies the island’s vibrant cultural heritage and global influences. Packed with essential nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins E and B6, and antioxidants, it offers a unique blend of indulgence and health benefits. However, moderation is key, as its sweetness and calorie content can be a concern. Discover the delight of ARUBA’s Bolo di Cashupete – a taste that captures the heart of the Caribbean in every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 2 teaspoons baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 2 cups granulated sugar

- 4 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 cup cashew nuts, finely chopped

- 1 cup coconut milk

For the Frosting:

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 4 cups powdered sugar

- 1/2 cup coconut milk

- 1 teaspoon almond extract

- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Prepare the Cake Batter:

- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coconut milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

- Fold in the finely chopped cashew nuts.

Bake the Cake:

- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Frosting:

- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.

- Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the coconut milk. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

- Stir in the almond extract.

Assemble the Cake:

- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.

- Spread a layer of frosting over the top of the first layer.

- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

- Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the frosting.

Serve and Enjoy:

- Slice and serve this delightful ARUBA Bolo di Cashupete. Enjoy the tropical flavors and the rich, nutty goodness!

- Indulge in the taste of the Caribbean with this irresistible Bolo di Cashupete – a perfect blend of cashews, coconut, and heavenly sweetness!

Additional Suggestions

- Consider adding a little cinnamon or nutmeg to your cake batter for an extra layer of warmth and spice. These spices pair beautifully with the tropical flavors of coconut and cashews.

- For extra texture, try folding in some finely chopped dried fruits like pineapple or mango. Not only will these enhance the flavor, they will also add moisture to the cake.

- To make the frosting lighter and less sweet, you can reduce the powdered sugar and add a little coconut milk to adjust the consistency. This will also give the frosting a smoother, creamier texture.

- You can top it with whole cashews or toasted coconut flakes. This will add a nice crunch and enhance the tropical look of the cake.

Frequently Asked Questions :

Can I use alternative ingredients if I can't find cashew nuts?

- Yes, you can substitute cashew nuts with other nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the cake, but they will still provide a rich, nutty taste that complements the tropical ingredients.

What is the best way to store the cake?

- It is best to store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate it. Just make sure the cake is well-wrapped or stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature for the best taste and texture.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

- Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences. You can also substitute refined sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or stevia. Keep in mind that using alternative sweeteners may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cake, but it’s a good option for those looking to lower their sugar intake.

Nutrition Value

1. For the Cake:

1.1 2 cups all-purpose flour

• Calories: ~910 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~190 g
• Protein: ~13 g
• Fat: ~2 g
• Sodium: ~10 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Small amounts of B vitamins, especially niacin
• Minerals: Iron, magnesium
• Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy through carbohydrates and supports muscle repair with its protein content. The small amounts of iron help with oxygen transport in the body.

1.2 2 teaspoons baking powder

• Calories: ~6 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~1 g
• Protein: ~0 g
• Fat: ~0 g
• Sodium: ~500 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: None significant
• Minerals: Sodium
• Nutritional Benefit: Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise. It provides minimal calories but contains sodium which is essential for electrolyte balance.

1.3 1/2 teaspoon salt

• Calories: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: ~0 g
• Protein: ~0 g
• Fat: ~0 g
• Sodium: ~1160 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: None
• Minerals: Sodium
• Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor and helps maintain electrolyte balance, which is essential for fluid balance in the body.

1.4 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• Calories: ~810 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~1 g
• Protein: ~1 g
• Fat: ~92 g
• Sodium: ~80 mg
• Cholesterol: ~220 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D
• Minerals: Calcium
• Nutritional Benefit: A source of healthy fats, providing energy and supporting metabolism. High in Vitamin A, which is essential for vision and skin health.

1.5 2 cups granulated sugar

• Calories: ~1540 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~400 g
• Protein: ~0 g
• Fat: ~0 g
• Sodium: ~0 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: None
• Minerals: None
• Nutritional Benefit: Adds sweetness and energy through simple sugars. It provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation due to its high glycemic index.

1.6 4 large eggs

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~2 g
• Protein: ~24 g
• Fat: ~20 g
• Sodium: ~320 mg
• Cholesterol: ~680 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D, B vitamins (especially B12 and riboflavin)
• Minerals: Iron, zinc
• Nutritional Benefit: High-quality protein and healthy fats that support muscle growth, tissue repair, and brain health. The cholesterol content is beneficial for hormone production.

1.7 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Calories: ~12 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~1 g
• Protein: ~0 g
• Fat: ~0 g
• Sodium: ~0 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: None significant
• Minerals: None
• Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor with minimal calories, providing a pleasant aroma and taste to the cake without significant nutritional impact.

1.8 1 cup cashew nuts, finely chopped

• Calories: ~550 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~30 g
• Protein: ~18 g
• Fat: ~44 g
• Sodium: ~5 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin E, B6
• Minerals: Magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc
• Nutritional Benefit: A good source of healthy fats and protein, supporting heart health, and muscle repair. Rich in magnesium, which supports bone health and muscle function.

1.9 1 cup coconut milk

• Calories: ~445 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~6 g
• Protein: ~4 g
• Fat: ~48 g
• Sodium: ~45 mg
• Cholesterol: ~0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin E
• Minerals: Iron, magnesium, potassium
• Nutritional Benefit: Provides healthy fats that support energy production and metabolism. Coconut milk also has antioxidants and a small amount of potassium that helps regulate fluid balance.

2. For the Frosting:

2.1 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• Calories: ~405 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~1 g
• Protein: ~1 g
• Fat: ~46 g
• Sodium: ~40 mg
• Cholesterol: ~110 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D
• Minerals: Calcium
• Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy through fats and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. High in Vitamin A for skin health.

2.2 4 cups powdered sugar

• Calories: ~1920 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~500 g
• Protein: ~0 g
• Fat: ~0 g
• Sodium: ~0 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: None
• Minerals: None
• Nutritional Benefit: Primarily adds sweetness, providing quick energy through simple sugars, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high glycemic index.

2.3 1/2 cup coconut milk

• Calories: ~222 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~3 g
• Protein: ~2 g
• Fat: ~24 g
• Sodium: ~20 mg
• Cholesterol: ~0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin E
• Minerals: Potassium, magnesium
• Nutritional Benefit: Rich in healthy fats and aids in maintaining a good metabolism. Provides small amounts of electrolytes like potassium, which supports heart health.

2.4 1 teaspoon almond extract

• Calories: ~12 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~1 g
• Protein: ~0 g
• Fat: ~0 g
• Sodium: ~0 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: None significant
• Minerals: None
• Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor with minimal calories, contributing to the overall taste without affecting nutritional values significantly.

2.5 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

• Calories: ~200 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~24 g
• Protein: ~2 g
• Fat: ~16 g
• Sodium: ~40 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin E, small amounts of Vitamin C
• Minerals: Iron, magnesium, potassium
• Nutritional Benefit: A good source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting heart health, digestion, and skin health.

This structure includes numbering for each ingredient, their respective nutritional values, and the benefits they provide.