Kuwaiti Sponge Cake

Kuwaiti Sponge Cake Recipe - Delicious and Authentic

Region / culture: Kuwait | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Kuwaiti Sponge Cake is a traditional dessert that is loved by many in Kuwait. This light and fluffy cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests. The combination of cardamom and saffron gives this cake a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

The recipe for Kuwaiti Sponge Cake has been passed down through generations in Kuwait. It is a popular dessert that is often served during special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays. The use of cardamom and saffron in this cake is a nod to the rich culinary history of Kuwait, where these spices are commonly used in traditional dishes.

Ingredients

2 eggs
0.75 cups confectioner's sugar
0.75 cups flour
0.5 tsp baking powder
0.25 tsp ground cardamom
Pinch of saffron
A little shortening or butter for greasing the pan
1 tsp sesame seeds

How to prepare

In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs well.
Gradually beat in the sugar.
Sift the flour and baking powder together and mix well.
Combine the flour mixture with the eggs and sugar.
Add the cardamom and saffron.
Pour the mixture into a greased 8" baking pan.
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
Bake in a preheated 350° oven for 20 minutes.
To serve, cut the baked dish with a serrated knife for best results.

Variations

Add a teaspoon of rose water for a floral flavor.
Substitute ground cinnamon for the cardamom for a different spice profile.
Top the cake with chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to beat the eggs well to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Sifting the flour and baking powder together will help to ensure a smooth and even batter.

- Grease the baking pan well to prevent the cake from sticking.

- Sprinkling sesame seeds on top adds a nice crunch and flavor to the cake.

- Use a serrated knife to cut the cake for clean and neat slices.

Serving Suggestions

Kuwaiti Sponge Cake can be served on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. It pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the eggs well is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.

- Sifting the flour and baking powder together helps to ensure a smooth batter.

- Baking the cake at the right temperature and time is crucial for a perfectly cooked cake.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular sugar instead of confectioner's sugar.

- All-purpose flour can be used instead of cake flour.

- Ground cinnamon can be used instead of cardamom.

Make Ahead Tips

Kuwaiti Sponge Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It can also be frozen for up to 1 month.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Kuwaiti Sponge Cake on a decorative platter or cake stand. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Kuwaiti Sponge Cake pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee. It can also be served with a side of fresh fruit for a light and refreshing dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Kuwaiti Sponge Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Kuwaiti Sponge Cake contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Kuwaiti Sponge Cake contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Kuwaiti Sponge Cake contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Kuwaiti Sponge Cake contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Kuwaiti Sponge Cake is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Kuwaiti Sponge Cake contains eggs and wheat.

Summary

Kuwaiti Sponge Cake is a light and fluffy dessert that is relatively low in calories and fats. It is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Kuwaiti Sponge Cake is a delicious and light dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its unique flavor and fluffy texture, this cake is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered the recipe for Kuwaiti Sponge Cake. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a dear friend in Kuwait City. As we sat in her kitchen sipping tea and catching up, she suddenly got up and started rummaging through her pantry.

"Ah-ha! I found it!" she exclaimed, holding up a faded recipe card. "This is my grandmother's recipe for Kuwaiti Sponge Cake. Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I eagerly nodded, intrigued by the thought of trying a new and exotic dessert. My friend smiled and began to walk me through the steps, explaining each ingredient and technique in detail.

The process was surprisingly simple, yet the end result was a light and fluffy cake that practically melted in your mouth. The secret, my friend explained, was in the precise measurements and gentle folding of the ingredients. It was a delicate dance that required patience and care.

As I watched her work, I couldn't help but think about all the other recipes I had learned over the years. Some came from cookbooks, others from family members or friends. Each one had its own story, its own unique flavor that sparked memories and brought people together.

But there was something special about this Kuwaiti Sponge Cake recipe. It felt like a window into a different world, a glimpse of a culture and tradition that was both familiar and foreign. It was a reminder of the power of food to connect us, to bridge gaps and build relationships.

I thanked my friend profusely for sharing her family recipe with me, and as I left her house that day, I knew that I would be making Kuwaiti Sponge Cake for my own family very soon.

Back home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work. The familiar scent of vanilla and sugar filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of my time in Kuwait. As I carefully folded the batter and poured it into the pan, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and excitement.

When the cake was finally ready, I took it out of the oven and marveled at its golden perfection. It looked just like the one my friend had made, and I couldn't wait to share it with my loved ones.

As we sat down to enjoy the cake, I told them the story of how I had learned the recipe. I watched as their eyes lit up with curiosity and anticipation, eager to taste this new and exotic dessert.

With each bite, we savored the light and airy texture, the subtle sweetness that lingered on our tongues. It was a moment of pure joy and connection, a reminder of the power of food to bring us together and create lasting memories.

And so, the recipe for Kuwaiti Sponge Cake became a beloved favorite in my family. It was a reminder of my time in Kuwait, of the friendships and experiences that had shaped me. And it was a testament to the beauty of sharing recipes and stories, of passing down traditions and creating new ones.

As I look back on that day in my friend's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of this recipe. It has enriched my life in so many ways, and I know that it will continue to bring joy and connection to those who taste it in the years to come.