Coconut Loaf Cake

Ingredients

• • Sugar: 175 g (¾ cup + 2 tablespoons)
  • Butter: 110 g (½ cup), softened
  • Vegetable oil: 30 ml (2 tablespoons)

• • Eggs: 2 large
  • Plain flour: 190 g (1½ cups)
  • Baking powder: 1 teaspoon

• • Coconut milk: 100 ml (⅓ cup + 2 tablespoons)
  • Almond essence: ½ teaspoon (optional)
  • Toasted desiccated coconut: 50 g (½ cup)

Baking Equipment

• • Measuring cup size: 240 ml
  • Baking pan size: 21x11x6 cm

Directions

• • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F). Grease and line the baking pan with parchment paper.

• • Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
    1. 1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
       2. Add the vegetable oil and mix well.
       3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
    1. Stir in the almond essence, if using.
  • Combine the Dry Ingredients:
    1. 1. In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour and baking powder.
    1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the coconut milk. Mix until just combined.
  • Add the Coconut:
    • • Fold in the toasted desiccated coconut gently to evenly distribute.

  • Bake the Cake:
    1. 1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
       2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  • Cool and Serve:
    • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

• • Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a relaxing treat.
  • Top with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of coconut glaze for added sweetness.

• Serve with fresh fruits like berries or mango for a tropical twist.

Cooking Tips

• • Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.

• For added coconut flavor, use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Nutritional Benefits

• Coconut milk adds natural fats and a creamy texture.
• Desiccated coconut provides fiber and essential minerals like manganese.