Mrs. Carraway'S Fresh Coconut Cake(From The Files Of Dessie Bell Hayes)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A moist, fluffy coconut cake featuring rich vanilla flavor and light egg whites, perfect for celebrations or teatime indulgence, appealing to coconut lovers and dessert enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 3 cups flour
  • 6 egg whites

Instructions

  1. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Incorporate dry ingredients, alternating with milk and water, then add vanilla.
  3. Gently fold in beaten egg whites.
  4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter cake, ensure the butter is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. If you don't have egg whites, you can use 3 whole eggs instead, but the texture will be denser. You can also substitute the milk with almond milk for a dairy-free option. Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for an even softer crumb.

Serving Suggestions

This coconut cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. It’s also delightful alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving it with a side of Angge'S Salad for a well-rounded meal, or enjoy it as a sweet treat during gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover coconut cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mrs. Carraway'S Fresh Coconut Cake(From The Files Of Dessie Bell Hayes) contains roughly 937 calories, with 4g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1184mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).

937 kcal 47% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.1g 8% DV
Total Fat 91.8g 100% DV
Carbs 23.2g 8% DV
Fiber 0.5g 2% DV
Sugar 7.1g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1184mg 51% DV
Potassium 78mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 270.9mg 90% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 28.2mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 2.5mg 3% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 1% DV
Calcium 203.8mg 16% DV
Iron 1.9mg 10% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut?

Yes, you can use fresh coconut to enhance the flavor of the cake. Just ensure to finely grate it and reduce the moisture in the cake slightly if using a lot, as fresh coconut can add more liquid than shredded. Adjusting the baking time might also be necessary depending on the moisture content.

What can I use instead of butter?

If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Keep in mind that using coconut oil will add a slight coconut flavor, which can complement the cake well. Just ensure to use the same amount as specified for butter in the recipe.

How can I make this cake more decadent?

To elevate the cake, consider adding a coconut cream frosting or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and coconut milk. You can also layer it with fresh coconut or a fruit compote between the layers for added flavor and texture. Adding toasted coconut flakes on top can also enhance both taste and presentation.

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).

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