Benin Sweet Bread, also known as Pain de Gâteau or Gâteau Congolais, is a beloved delicacy from West Africa, particularly popular in Benin. This moist and delicious bread combines flour, sugar, shredded coconut, and a blend of other ingredients to create a unique and satisfying flavor profile. Originating from Benin, this bread holds cultural significance as a staple during special occasions and celebrations, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of West Africa. The use of ingredients like coconut and evaporated milk, influenced by historical trade routes, adds depth to its rich, buttery taste. Benin Sweet Bread is perfect for serving alongside tea or coffee, or as a delightful dessert. Easy to make with basic pantry staples, it's a recipe that celebrates both tradition and flavor, making it a welcome addition to any baking repertoire , It's perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking to explore West African flavors.

Here is a step-by-step method for making Benin Sweet Bread:

 Ingredients:

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 2 cups sugar

- 2 cups shredded coconut

- 1 tsp baking powder

- 1/2 tsp salt

- 4 eggs

- 1 cup vegetable oil

- 1 cup evaporated milk

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

2. Combine flour, sugar, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.

3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, then add vegetable oil, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.

5. Transfer batter into prepared pan, smoothing the surface.

6. Bake for 45-50 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

7. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Slice and serve, optionally adding raisins, nuts, or dried fruits for variation.

Benin Sweet Bread is a delightful addition to any baking repertoire, offering a taste of West African tradition with its sweet, nutty flavors and moist texture. Whether enjoyed freshly baked or stored for later, it's sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious results.

Nutrition Value:

1. All-purpose Flour (3 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 1140 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 237 grams

  - Protein: Around 33 grams

  - Fat: Less than 2 grams

  - Sodium: Roughly 24 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron, calcium, and B vitamins

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides carbohydrates for energy and some protein, but minimal fat and no cholesterol.

2. Sugar (2 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 1600 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 400 grams

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Trace amounts

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides quick energy due to its high carbohydrate content, but offers no significant vitamins or minerals.

3. Shredded Coconut (2 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 960 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 64 grams

  - Protein: Around 8 grams

  - Fat: About 80 grams (mainly saturated fat)

  - Sodium: Approximately 80 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains significant amounts of manganese and copper, and some iron and potassium

  - Nutritional Benefit: High in healthy fats (mostly saturated), provides dietary fiber, and contains essential minerals.

4. Baking Powder (1 tsp):

  - Calories: Approximately 2 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: About 500 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None

  - Nutritional Benefit: Used as a leavening agent to help the bread rise.

5. Salt (1/2 tsp):

  - Calories: None

  - Carbohydrates: None

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Approximately 1160 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None

  - Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor and helps regulate fluid balance in the body.

6. Eggs (4 eggs):

  - Calories: Approximately 280 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 2 grams

  - Protein: About 28 grams

  - Fat: Around 20 grams (mainly unsaturated and saturated fats)

  - Sodium: Approximately 280 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 860 milligrams

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium, and a good source of vitamin D and phosphorus

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

7. Vegetable Oil (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 1920 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: None

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: About 216 grams (mainly unsaturated fats)

  - Sodium: Trace amounts

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin E and small amounts of vitamin K

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy and essential fatty acids.

8. Evaporated Milk (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 340 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 25 grams

  - Protein: About 16 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 20 grams (mainly saturated fat)

  - Sodium: Approximately 180 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 70 milligrams

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and vitamin B12

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds creaminess and richness, and provides calcium and vitamin D.

9. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp):

  - Calories: Approximately 12 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Trace amounts

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None

  - Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor without adding significant calories or nutrients.

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.

Benin Sweet Bread is a delicious and filling bread that is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. It is high in calories and sugar, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.