When the comforting scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel transported to cozy gatherings and warm memories. That’s the magic of this delicious Gluten-Free Cassava Cake, a true celebration of flavor and texture. The first time I tried it, I was captivated by its moist, custard-like consistency that feels like a warm hug with every bite. This delightful treat doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; it brings people together, making it perfect for festive occasions or just a sweet indulgence on a quiet evening at home.
What makes this cake truly special is its ability to cater to different diets while delivering rich flavors. With gluten-free ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this Yuca Cake is not just dessert; it’s a comforting experience that brightens any day. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get started on creating a dish that’s sure to impress!
Why is Cassava Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: This Cassava Cake is infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen.
Gluten-free goodness: Perfect for anyone avoiding gluten, this cake offers a delicious alternative without compromising taste.
Effortless preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up quickly for family or friends.
Perfect for gatherings: Its comforting taste and texture make it a hit at any celebration or casual get-together.
Unique delight: Experience the distinctive flavor of cassava in a form that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Don’t forget to check out more gluten-free dessert ideas to elevate your baking!
Cassava Cake Ingredients
For the Batter
- Sugar – Provides sweetness; can be substituted with a sugar alternative if desired.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor; can be swapped with pumpkin pie spice mix.
- Freshly Grated Nutmeg – Enhances the flavor profile; store-bought ground nutmeg works as an alternative.
- Ground Allspice – Offers additional aroma and warmth; optional based on taste preference.
- Ground Cloves – Gives a hint of spice; use sparingly or omit.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; always a must!
- Instant Espresso Powder – Deepens flavor; coffee can be used for a milder taste.
- Large Eggs – Provides structure and moisture; consider egg alternatives for a vegan version.
- Coconut Milk – Adds creaminess; can substitute with almond or soy milk.
- Evaporated Milk – Creates a rich texture; can swap with condensed milk while adjusting sugar.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; essence can be a substitute.
- Frozen Grated Cassava (Yuca) – The main component of the cake; fresh cassava can be used as well.
For Serving
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Optional for serving; enhances the flavor of this delightful Cassava Cake.
How to Make Cassava Cake
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 9 x 13” baking dish to ensure your cake comes out easily after baking.
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Prepare Espresso: In a small bowl, dissolve the instant espresso powder in boiling water. Let it cool to room temperature; this will bring out deeper flavors in your cake.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, allspice, ground cloves, and salt until well combined for a flavorful base.
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Beat Eggs: In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the large eggs until they become light and fluffy, which will help your cake rise beautifully in the oven.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Gradually mix the cooled espresso, coconut milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract into the beaten eggs, creating a rich, aromatic batter.
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Fold in Cassava: Gently incorporate the dry mixture and frozen grated cassava into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want a tender cake!
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
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Cool & Serve: Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly. For an added touch, drizzle with sweetened condensed milk before serving to enhance its sweetness.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Cassava Cake slices are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients (excluding the frozen grated cassava) and refrigerating it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply fold in the cassava, pour the batter into the greased baking dish, and bake as instructed. Additionally, you can bake the cassava cake ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just warm it gently before serving to restore its delicious, moist texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have this comforting dessert ready to impress with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Cassava Cake?
The perfect meal deserves equally delightful companions to enhance its flavors and textures.
- Coconut Ice Cream: The creamy texture of coconut ice cream offers a cool contrast to the warm cake, balancing the spices beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple adds freshness and a burst of color to your dessert table.
- Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee pairs exquisitely with cassava cake, enhancing its nutty flavors and warm spices while creating a cozy experience.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream brings a touch of sweetness and softness that complements the moist, custard-like nature of the cake.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over slices of cassava cake adds decadence and an extra layer of indulgence that’s irresistible.
- Spiced Tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced herbal tea can elevate the dessert experience, echoing the cake’s warm spices while adding magic to the moment.
- Caramel Sauce: Rich caramel sauce brings a sweet and slightly salty note that enhances the cake’s comforting flavors and offers a delightful treat.
- Macadamia Nuts: Toasted macadamia nuts add a crunchy texture and a hint of richness, perfectly contrasting with the soft cake.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar not only brightens the cake with extra flavor but also enhances its inviting appearance.
How to Store and Freeze Cassava Cake
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days to keep the moist, custard-like texture intact. It’s a perfect way to enjoy this comforting dessert throughout the week.
Freezer: Wrap the cassava cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enhance the flavors. A light drizzle of sweetened condensed milk makes for a delicious touch!
Expert Tips for Cassava Cake
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Beat Eggs Well: Ensure eggs are whisked until light and fluffy; this helps achieve a light and airy texture for the best rise in your cake.
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Don’t Overbake: Start checking for doneness at 50 minutes; overbaking can dry out the moist, custard-like consistency of your cassava cake.
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Cool Before Serving: Let the cake cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors; it’s especially delightful warm or at room temperature.
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Slicing Tips: Use a sharp knife to slice for clean cuts, preventing the cake from crumbling, ensuring your presentation is as delicious as the flavor.
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Storage Guidance: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze wrapped tightly for longer freshness.
Cassava Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize this delightful cake to match your taste and dietary preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk with almond or oat milk for a rich, creamy texture without the dairy.
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Vegan Swap: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use a store-bought egg replacer for a plant-based version.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
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Nutty Goodness: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch that complements the soft texture of the cake.
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Fruit Infusion: Incorporate fresh bananas or shredded carrots into the batter to add moisture and a hint of natural sweetness.
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Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Mix in chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a decadent chocolate version that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
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Zesty Burst: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a fresh citrusy flavor that brightens each bite.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle with a spicy honey or cayenne-infused syrup for a unique blend of sweet and heat, truly captivating for adventurous eaters.
Cassava Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right cassava for my cake?
When choosing cassava, look for firm, fresh roots that have a smooth skin and no dark spots. If using frozen grated cassava, ensure it’s well-packaged and not freezer burned to maintain quality.
How can I store leftover cassava cake?
Store any leftover cassava cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Ensure it is completely cooled before sealing to maintain its moist texture. If it’s not consumed within that timeframe, you can freeze it to enjoy later!
Can I freeze cassava cake? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cassava cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. This ensures it stays fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply place it in the fridge overnight to thaw and then warm it up before serving!
What if my cassava cake comes out too dry?
If your cassava cake ends up too dry, it may have been overbaked. To prevent this in the future, start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark. Additionally, serving the cake warm with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk can help add moisture and flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This cassava cake is inherently gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. However, be mindful of additional ingredients like condensed milk and ensure they align with your dietary preferences or restrictions. If you’re making it vegan, consider using egg replacements and a non-dairy milk alternative!
What’s the best way to serve cassava cake?
The more the merrier! I recommend serving your cassava cake warm and topped with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It not only enhances the flavor but also makes for an inviting presentation that’s perfect for gatherings. Enjoy!
Delicious Cassava Cake: A Gluten-Free Sweet Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9 x 13” baking dish.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the instant espresso powder in boiling water. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, allspice, ground cloves, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk the large eggs until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix the cooled espresso, coconut milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract into the beaten eggs.
- Gently fold the dry mixture and frozen grated cassava into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with sweetened condensed milk if desired.