Coushaw Cake
Couscous Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert combining the nutty goodness of cooked couscous with warm spices and a sweet, tender crumb. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, its rich aroma and hearty texture appeal to those who enjoy unique, comforting baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9 1/2 x 13-inch cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and vanilla flavor.
- Add eggs and oil to the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Stir in cooked couscous and nuts until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon. If you prefer a healthier twist, substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrition. If you don't have coushaw, cooked pumpkin or butternut squash can serve as a great alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This cake can be enjoyed plain or topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. For a delightful pairing, serve it with a scoop of Lenora'S Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It makes a wonderful dessert for gatherings or a sweet treat alongside your morning coffee. Consider pairing it with fresh fruit for a balanced flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Coushaw Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coushaw Cake contains roughly 1415 calories, with 8g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2402mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for nuts, you can use walnuts, pecans, or even omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Just ensure they are chopped to ensure even distribution in the batter.
What can I substitute if I don't have vanilla flavor?
If you don't have vanilla flavor, you can use an equal amount of vanilla extract. Alternatively, almond extract can add a unique flavor profile. Just use it sparingly as it can be more potent.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, to make a gluten-free version of Coushaw Cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture, or add a teaspoon if it doesn't.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).