Arabian Coffee Cake

Arabian Coffee Cake Recipe from Saudi Arabia - Delicious and Easy to Make

Region / culture: Arabia, Saudi Arabia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Arabian Coffee Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, aromatic flavors of coffee with the soft, spongy texture of cake. This recipe is perfect for coffee lovers looking to indulge in a sweet treat that captures the essence of their favorite beverage. With its unique filling and coffee-infused icing, this cake stands out as a sophisticated option for any gathering or a cozy afternoon at home.

History

The Arabian Coffee Cake is a modern twist on traditional coffee-flavored desserts that have been enjoyed in various cultures for centuries. Coffee has played a significant role in Arabian culture, often being served during gatherings and social events. This cake pays homage to the tradition of coffee in Arabian hospitality, incorporating the robust flavors of coffee into a beloved dessert form.

Ingredients

3 egg whites
0.5 cup sugar
3 cups Aristos never-fail flour
3 tsp combination baking powder
5 tsp tartrate or phosphate powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 cup white vegetable shortening
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp boiling water
1 tsp vanilla
0.5 cup milk
0.5 cup cold water

Filling

1 cup very strong coffee
2 tbsp Aristos never-fail flour
2 tbsp corn starch
0.5 cup sugar
0.25 tsp salt
2 egg yolks
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla
confectioners icing sugar, using very strong hot coffee for the liquid in icing

How to prepare

Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add 0.5 cups of sugar.
Continue beating until the whites form stiff peaks.
Set the whites aside. Sift the flour and measure 3 cups of sifted flour. Resift the flour 3 times with baking powder and salt, then set it aside.
Cream the shortening and beat in the sugar.
Once blended, beat in a tablespoon of boiling water until light and fluffy. Then add the vanilla.
Add the milk and cold water alternately with the flour mixture.
Mix very lightly and fold in the egg whites. Place the mixture in two buttered, floured layer cake pans.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 25 minutes.
Makes: 2 - 9 inch layers.

Coffee filling

Mix the flour, cornstarch, and sugar together.
Pour the very strong coffee slowly over the flour mixture.
Add a pinch of salt and stir until smooth. Cook over low heat until thick.
Add the egg yolks and cook again until thick and smooth.
Add the butter and vanilla. When cold, spread the mixture between the layers of cake.
Frost with confectioners sugar icing, using very strong hot coffee as the liquid in the icing.

Variations

For a nuttier flavor, add chopped walnuts or almonds to the cake batter.
Substitute the white vegetable shortening with unsalted butter for a richer taste.
Incorporate a layer of coffee-flavored buttercream for an extra indulgent filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Arabian Coffee Cake turns out perfectly, consider these tips:

- Use high-quality coffee for the filling and icing to enhance the flavor.

- When folding in the egg whites, do so gently to keep the batter light and airy.

- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.

- For a more intense coffee flavor, you can add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the cake batter.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Arabian Coffee Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the rich coffee flavors. A dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also enhance the presentation and taste.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include creaming (for the cake batter), folding (to incorporate the egg whites), and thickening (for the coffee filling). Mastery of these techniques will ensure a light, moist cake and a smooth, flavorful filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Replace the Aristos never-fail flour with an equal amount of all-purpose flour if unavailable.

- If you prefer not to use white vegetable shortening, unsalted butter is a suitable alternative.

- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.

Make Ahead Tips

The cake layers and coffee filling can be prepared a day in advance. Store the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature, and keep the filling refrigerated. Assemble the cake on the day of serving for the best texture and flavor.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, garnish the cake with edible flowers, coffee beans, or chocolate shavings. A light dusting of powdered sugar on the plate can add a touch of sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Arabian Coffee Cake with a cup of strong Arabic coffee or a glass of dessert wine, such as a Moscato d'Asti, to complement the cake's coffee flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, let the cake come to room temperature before serving. This cake is not recommended for freezing.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Arabian Coffee Cake contains approximately 300 calories. The calories are derived from the combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the ingredients.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Arabian Coffee Cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The main sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the flour and sugar, which provide the cake's structure and sweetness.

Fats

This cake contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, primarily coming from the white vegetable shortening and egg yolks. The shortening contributes to the cake's tender crumb, while the egg yolks enrich the filling.

Proteins

Each serving of Arabian Coffee Cake offers around 4 grams of protein. The protein in this recipe comes from the eggs, with the egg whites adding structure to the cake and the yolks thickening the filling.

Vitamins and minerals

The cake provides small amounts of calcium and iron, primarily from the flour and eggs. Additionally, the coffee used in the filling and icing contributes trace amounts of potassium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, gluten (from wheat flour), and dairy (from butter). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, Arabian Coffee Cake is a moderately indulgent dessert. While it offers some nutritional value in the form of proteins and minerals, it is also high in sugars and fats, making it best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Arabian Coffee Cake is a delightful dessert that marries the rich flavors of coffee with the soft texture of cake. Perfect for coffee enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike, this cake offers a unique taste experience. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can create a beautiful and delicious cake that pays tribute to the tradition of coffee in Arabian culture.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Arabian Coffee Cake. It was many years ago, during a trip to Morocco with my husband. We were exploring the bustling markets of Marrakech when we stumbled upon a small, hidden bakery tucked away in a narrow alleyway.

The aroma of freshly baked pastries wafted through the air, drawing us in like a magnet. As we entered the bakery, we were greeted by a kind, elderly woman who introduced herself as Fatima. Her warm smile and welcoming demeanor immediately put us at ease.

Fatima invited us to sit at a small table in the corner of the bakery, where she served us steaming cups of rich, aromatic coffee and slices of the most decadent coffee cake I had ever tasted. The cake was light and fluffy, with a hint of cardamom and cinnamon that danced on my tastebuds.

I couldn't help but ask Fatima for the recipe, and to my surprise, she graciously agreed to share it with me. As she dictated the ingredients and instructions, I furiously scribbled notes in my travel journal, determined to recreate this delicious treat in my own kitchen.

When we returned home from our trip, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work. The scent of cardamom and cinnamon filled my kitchen as the cake baked in the oven, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product.

When the cake emerged golden and fragrant, I knew I had succeeded. The first bite transported me back to that small bakery in Marrakech, where Fatima's kindness and hospitality had left a lasting impression on me.

Since that fateful day, Arabian Coffee Cake has become a staple in my recipe collection. I have shared it with friends and family, bringing a taste of Morocco to those closest to me. Each time I bake it, I am reminded of the magic of travel and the joy of discovering new flavors and traditions.

As I sit here now, savoring a slice of Arabian Coffee Cake with a steaming cup of coffee in hand, I am grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. And I can't help but smile, knowing that this recipe will continue to be passed down through generations, bringing joy and delight to all who taste it.