Jackfruit cake is a delightful and moist dessert that combines the distinct sweetness of ripe jackfruit with the comforting, rich flavors of a traditional cake. This irresistible cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress both casual coffee-time guests and the most discerning dessert lovers. Its unique texture from the jackfruit adds moistness and a tropical flair, making it a truly special treat that stands out from regular fruit cakes.
Ingredients:
To make a delicious jackfruit cake, gather the following ingredients:
For the Jackfruit Cake:
- 1 cup ripe jackfruit, mashed (fresh or canned, well-drained)
- 1 and ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust for sweetness preference)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan substitute)
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds, optional)
Instructions:
Preparation Steps (Total Time: 30 minutes)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Jackfruit
- If using fresh jackfruit, peel and cut the fruit, removing the seeds. Mash the jackfruit with a fork or a potato masher until it reaches a smooth and slightly chunky consistency.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes) using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs (or flax eggs) one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon, if using.
Step 6: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mix, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 7: Fold in Jackfruit
- Gently fold the mashed jackfruit into the cake batter. Ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Step 8: Pour and Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped nuts on top if you’re using them.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
How to Serve:
- Slice the jackfruit cake into wedges and serve it warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, serve it with a scoop of coconut ice cream or whipped cream to pair beautifully with the tropical flavors.
Beverage Pairing:
- This cake pairs well with a refreshing tropical fruit smoothie, a cup of coconut water, or a strong cup of coffee or tea.
Nutritional Information:
Jackfruit is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Here are some highlights of what this cake offers:
- Jackfruit: Rich in vitamins A, C, potassium, and dietary fiber, jackfruit aids in digestion and provides energy.
- Butter: Provides healthy fats and contributes to the cake’s moisture.
- Eggs: Serve as a great source of protein.
- Coconut: Adds healthy fats and enhances the flavor profile.
- Nuts (if used): A source of protein, healthy fats, and minerals.
This cake is suitable for vegetarians and can easily be adapted for vegans, ensuring more people can enjoy its unique flavor profile.
FAQ
1. Can I use canned jackfruit for this recipe?
Yes, canned jackfruit works perfectly. Make sure to drain and rinse it well before mashing.
2. Is this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust since gluten-free flour may not behave exactly like wheat flour.
3. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
4. Can I substitute the sugar with a healthier option?
Yes! You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar, honey (if not vegan), or a sugar alternative like Stevia. Adjust the quantity based on the sweetness level of your chosen substitute.
5. What if I don’t have cinnamon?
Cinnamon adds warmth and flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can simply omit it. Alternatively, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts:
Jackfruit cake is an exciting and healthy dessert that anyone can make in just under 30 minutes. With its moist texture, rich flavors, and the tropical essence of jackfruit, this cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Whether enjoyed on its own, shared with friends, or served at gatherings, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Embrace the versatility of jackfruit and treat yourself to a piece of this delightful cake today! Happy baking!