Gâteau Dodo is a traditional Mauritian dessert that captures the essence of the island's vibrant flavors. Made with a combination of coconut, sugar, and spices, this cake offers a rich, aromatic taste that’s both sweet and satisfying. The coconut provides natural sweetness, while the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add depth and warmth to the flavor. It’s a traditional cake loved by many, perfect for any celebration or a simple afternoon snack. Additionally, coconut is a great source of healthy fats and fiber, which support heart health and digestive function. However, the sugar content should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. This spiced cake is also ideal for those who enjoy tropical desserts, with its subtle mix of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups grated coconut
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Ingredient Substitutes:

  • Butter Substitute: If you want to reduce the calorie content or make the cake dairy-free, you can use coconut oil instead of butter. Coconut oil will complement the coconut flavor of the cake, giving it a richer taste while reducing the saturated fat compared to butter.
  • Sugar Substitute: For a lower-calorie option, you can replace the sugar with a natural sweetener like Stevia or Erythritol. These sugar substitutes are often used in low-carb diets and will help lower the overall sugar content of the cake without compromising its sweetness.
  • Egg Substitute: If you are following a vegan diet or have an egg allergy, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. For one egg, use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature before you place the cake in to bake.
  • Grease and flour a cake pan, ensuring that the batter will easily release from the pan once baked. You can use any standard 9-inch round or square pan for this recipe.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups of grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
  • 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon of salt

Whisk these ingredients together to ensure they are well distributed. This helps prevent clumping and ensures that the leavening agents are evenly mixed throughout the dry ingredients.

3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

In another large bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • ½ cup of milk (you can use any type of milk: whole, almond, or oat milk)
  • ½ cup of melted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free version)
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Use a hand whisk or a stand mixer on low speed to mix these ingredients until they form a smooth, homogenous mixture.

4. Combine the Mixtures:

  • Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously as you go. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures that the batter comes together evenly.
  • Stir until everything is well combined. The batter should be thick but pourable.

5. Bake the Cake:

  • Pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured cake pan, ensuring an even distribution. Use a spatula to smooth the top if necessary.
  • Place the cake pan in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached, the cake is ready.
  • Be mindful not to overbake, as this can cause the cake to dry out.

6. Cool and Serve:

  • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to transfer and prevents it from breaking apart.
  • After the initial cooling period, turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures that air circulates around the cake, helping it cool evenly and maintain its texture.
  • Once fully cooled, slice the cake into portions and serve. You can enjoy it as-is or serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch.

This method will give you a beautifully moist and flavorful Gâteau Dodo, perfect for any occasion.

Preparation Tips:

  • Avoiding a Dry Cake: To prevent your Gâteau Dodo from becoming dry, ensure that you don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense and dry. Additionally, make sure to measure the ingredients carefully, especially the flour, as using too much flour can make the cake dry. Keep an eye on the baking time and check the cake with a toothpick. Once it comes out clean, remove it from the oven to avoid overbaking.
  • Proper Storage: To store the cake properly and maintain its moisture, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh. If you plan to store it for an extended period, consider refrigerating it. However, make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving.
  • Shelf Life: Gâteau Dodo can last up to 3 days at room temperature when stored properly. If refrigerated, it can last up to a week, though refrigeration may slightly affect the texture. Freezing is another option, and the cake can be frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Tea or Coffee Pairing: Gâteau Dodo pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. A strong black tea or a spiced chai complements the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, while a rich espresso will highlight the coconut’s sweetness.
  • Special Occasions: This cake is perfect for festive occasions, such as birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings. Its unique flavor makes it a great addition to a dessert table or as a gift during celebrations. Serve it with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Additions to Enhance Flavor:

  • Nuts and Dried Fruits: For an added texture and a boost of nutrients, you can include chopped nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews. Dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or cranberries also work well, adding a natural sweetness and chewiness that pairs perfectly with the coconut and spices.
  • Flavor Variations: You can experiment by adding a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist or a handful of chocolate chips for a richer dessert. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also bring a unique touch to the traditional recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I make this cake without eggs? Yes! If you're following a vegan diet or have an egg allergy, you can replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture. To replace one egg, combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gel-like.
  2. How should I store Gâteau Dodo? After the cake has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. If you plan to store it for longer periods, refrigerate it or freeze it. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator.
  3. How long will the cake last? The cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you refrigerate it, it can last up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure it’s properly wrapped before storing it.
  4. Can this cake be made gluten-free or dairy-free? Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a non-dairy milk such as almond milk or oat milk.
  5. What occasions is Gâteau Dodo best for? Gâteau Dodo is ideal for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, or family get-togethers. It also makes a great snack or dessert for afternoon tea. Its tropical flavors make it perfect for summer parties or as a special treat for any occasion.
  6. How can I adjust the recipe to suit special dietary needs? If you are following a low-carb or keto diet, you can replace the sugar with a sugar substitute like Stevia or Erythritol. You can also use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a low-carb version.
  7. Can I prepare the cake in advance? Yes, you can bake the cake in advance. It can be stored at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for a longer shelf life. If preparing ahead, you can even freeze the cake and thaw it when needed.
  8. What is the best type of butter or oil to use? Coconut oil is a great alternative to butter, especially for enhancing the coconut flavor in the cake. However, you can also use unsalted butter for a more traditional taste, or any other vegetable oil if you prefer.
  9. Can I add other ingredients like fruits or nuts? Absolutely! Adding ingredients like chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts) or dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots) can enhance both the flavor and texture of the cake.

Nutritional Values and Benefits

Grated Coconut (2 cups)

  • Calories: 660
  • Fat: 64g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 16g

Nutritional Benefit: Coconut is a great source of healthy fats, especially medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can support energy levels and fat metabolism. It’s also high in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)

  • Calories: 455
  • Carbohydrates: 95g
  • Protein: 13g

Nutritional Benefit: All-purpose flour provides carbohydrates, which are a primary energy source. However, it lacks significant amounts of vitamins and minerals, so it’s best to balance it with other nutrient-dense ingredients like coconut.

Sugar (1/2 cup)

  • Calories: 400
  • Carbohydrates: 100g

Nutritional Benefit: While sugar adds sweetness to the cake, it is best consumed in moderation due to its potential to contribute to weight gain and other health issues when over-consumed.

Eggs (2 large)

  • Calories: 140
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D

Nutritional Benefit: Eggs are a rich source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and important vitamins like vitamin A and D, which support skin health, immune function, and bone health.

Milk (1/2 cup)

  • Calories: 60
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Calcium: 100mg

Nutritional Benefit: Milk provides calcium, which is essential for bone health, and protein to support muscle function. It’s also a good source of vitamin D, which helps in the absorption of calcium.

Melted Butter (1/4 cup)

  • Calories: 200
  • Fat: 23g

Nutritional Benefit: Butter adds richness and flavor to the cake. While it is high in fat, it provides essential fatty acids, which support energy levels and nutrient absorption. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its saturated fat content.

Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)

  • Calories: 12

Nutritional Benefit: While minimal in calories, vanilla extract adds a pleasant aroma and flavor to the cake, contributing to the overall taste experience. It also contains antioxidants that may offer some health benefits.

Gâteau Dodo is a delicious Mauritian cake that combines the tropical flavor of coconut with aromatic spices, creating a rich and flavorful dessert. While it provides healthy fats and fiber from coconut, it is important to enjoy this cake in moderation, especially due to its sugar and fat content. When eaten as part of a balanced diet, it offers a satisfying treat full of flavor and a touch of Mauritius in every bite.

kirolos
i'm just try to cook new things.

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