There’s something wonderfully inviting about the first bite of a warm, homemade Cassava Cake. As the rich aroma of coconut and sweet vanilla fills the kitchen, I’m reminded of vibrant family gatherings where this Filipino delight always steals the spotlight. The chewy texture paired with a luxurious custard topping makes it an absolute showstopper, perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknight desserts.
What I love most about this cake is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, including gluten-free cassava and creamy coconut milk, this healthy Cassava Cake recipe brings a world of flavor without complicated prep. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to break free from the fast-food routine, this dish is a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones. Dive in, and let’s create a mouthwatering masterpiece together!
Why love this Healthy Cassava Cake Recipe?
Delicious simplicity at its finest: With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a delightful dessert without overwhelming prep. Chewy texture and rich coconut flavor combine for a truly unforgettable taste experience. Gluten-free and adaptable, this cake can cater to dietary needs while still being crowd-pleasing. Perfect for gatherings, it captures the heartwarming essence of Filipino celebrations. If you’re eager to explore more easy recipes, check out our fun options for healthy dessert variations.
Healthy Cassava Cake Ingredients
• The secrets to baking this delightful cake are simple and accessible.
For the Cake
- Frozen Grated Cassava – Forms the chewy base; if unavailable, fresh grated cassava or yuca works well.
- Coconut Milk – Infuses richness and moisture; light coconut milk can be used for fewer calories.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds essential sweetness and flavor; DIY condensed milk can substitute using milk and sugar.
- Evaporated Milk – Enhances creaminess; regular milk can replace it, though the texture may slightly change.
- Eggs – Binds everything together; for best results, use eggs that are at room temperature.
- Melted Butter or Coconut Oil – Contributes flavor and richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free twist.
- Sugar – Balances sweetness; brown sugar can provide a caramel flavor or you can reduce if the cassava is sweet enough.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor; feel free to double the amount for a stronger vanilla impact.
For the Custard Topping
- Additional Condensed Milk – Creates a luscious topping; essential for that creamy finish.
- Coconut Milk – Works beautifully to complement the cake; ensures the topping is rich and smooth.
- Egg Yolks – Thickens and enriches the custard; using egg yolks helps achieve a creamy texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the custard; try using a pure extract for the best results.
Whether you are preparing this as an indulgent treat or a healthier dessert option, this Healthy Cassava Cake recipe packs in delightful flavors and textures that you and your loved ones will surely enjoy!
How to Make Healthy Cassava Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly. This step ensures your cake will bake evenly and release easily.
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Drain the thawed cassava by pressing it through a fine mesh strainer. This helps remove excess liquid, preventing a soggy cake and allowing for that perfect chewy texture.
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Mix all the cake ingredients in a large bowl: thawed cassava, coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla. Whisk until just combined, creating a smooth, rich batter.
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Pour the batter into the prepared dish, smoothing the top for an even bake. Place it in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly jiggly.
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Whisk together the custard topping ingredients: additional condensed milk, coconut milk, egg yolks, and vanilla in a separate bowl until well blended. This mixture creates that irresistible glossy layer.
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Remove the cake from the oven, gently pour the custard topping evenly over it, and return to bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the topping is set yet still slightly wobbly. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a beautifully golden top.
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Cool the cake at room temperature for a bit, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling enhances the flavors and makes slicing easier.
Optional: Serve topped with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Easy Filipino Cassava Cake?
Treat your senses to a complete dining experience that complements the delightful richness of this cake.
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Coconut Milk Rice: This aromatic side gives you that extra coconut flavor, providing a perfect match for the cake’s custard topping. Imagine the blend of soft rice and creamy coconut dancing together on your palate.
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Fresh Mango Slices: The natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh mangoes offer a refreshing contrast, balancing the cake’s richness while adding a pop of color.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of papaya, pineapple, and bananas can brighten up your plate and add texture, making each bite a celebration of tropical flavors.
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Filipino Coffee: Enjoy this smooth, rich coffee as a warm companion. Its bold notes harmonize beautifully with the sweet, creamy cassava cake, enhancing your dessert experience.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle a luscious chocolate sauce over your slices for an indulgent twist. The deep, bittersweet chocolate pairs surprisingly well with the coconut, adding a decadent flavor layer.
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Whipped Coconut Cream: This light and airy topping not only complements the cake’s flavors but also brings a playful texture to your dessert that feels wonderfully indulgent.
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Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle some over your cake or alongside for an added crunchy texture. The toasty flavor echoes the cake’s coconut essence and delights the senses.
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Iced Hibiscus Tea: Refreshing and subtly tart, this drink enhances the meal with its vibrant color and compliments the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
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Mizu Tofu: This silky tofu in syrup is a classic dessert to pair with the cake. Its mild taste soaks up the rich notes of the cassava cake, creating a delightful dessert duo.
How to Store and Freeze Healthy Cassava Cake
Fridge: Keep your healthy cassava cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezer: To freeze, slice the cassava cake and individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. This makes for easy thawing and quick desserts!
Reheating: When ready to indulge, thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm. Enjoy the chewy texture and rich coconut flavor as if freshly baked!
Room Temperature: If left at room temperature, consume within 2 days to ensure optimal freshness and flavor; it’s ideal for gatherings or quick snacking.
Expert Tips for Healthy Cassava Cake
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Proper Draining: Ensure you thoroughly drain the thawed cassava to prevent excess moisture, avoiding a soggy texture in your healthy cassava cake recipe.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, use room temperature eggs and other ingredients. This helps create a smoother batter that bakes more evenly.
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Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with flavor enhancers like pandan extract or shredded coconut, bringing a unique twist to your healthy cassava cake.
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Watch the Broil: If you choose to broil for a golden top, keep a close eye on it! Broiling can quickly go from golden to burnt.
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Chill for Best Flavor: Allow the cake to cool and chill for at least 2 hours before serving. The flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious!
Healthy Cassava Cake Variations
Feel free to give your cassava cake a personal twist with these fun and exciting variations!
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Coconut Flakes: Add shredded coconut to the batter for extra chewiness and flavor that enhances the coconut experience.
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Fruit Layering: Incorporate layers of ripe mango or banana between the cake and custard for a hint of tropical sweetness.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the batter for a lovely crunch and added richness.
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Sugar Swaps: Try using honey or agave syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness that brings a different taste profile.
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Choco Delight: Mix in chocolate chips for a delicious surprise that contrasts beautifully with the coconut flavor.
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Dairy-Free Dream: Substitute all dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, like almond milk and vegan condensed milk, for a fully dairy-free treat. This keeps it creamy while being mindful of dietary preferences.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, inviting flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Pandan Twist: Introduce pandan extract into the custard topping for a colorful and aromatic twist; it adds a distinct and delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with coconut!
Let your imagination guide you, and have fun enjoying countless takes on this classic dessert!
Make Ahead Options
This Healthy Cassava Cake recipe is the perfect choice for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time during the week! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it covered in the refrigerator. Additionally, the custard topping can be made and refrigerated for the same time frame. To maintain quality, ensure the cassava is adequately drained to prevent excess moisture. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the batter into the greased dish, add the custard topping, and bake as directed. This method ensures you’ll have a delicious, homemade dessert with minimal effort, letting you enjoy the sweet flavors of this classic Filipino treat whenever you desire!
Healthy Cassava Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of cassava should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen grated cassava is the most convenient option for this recipe. If you can’t find it, fresh grated cassava or “yuca” works well too. Just make sure it’s properly grated for the ideal texture.
How should I store leftover healthy cassava cake?
Keep your healthy cassava cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. As the flavors meld together, you’ll find that it tastes even better the next day!
Can I freeze the healthy cassava cake?
Very easily!
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- First, slice the cassava cake into individual portions.
- Wrap each slice in plastic wrap snugly to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or freezer bag.
You can freeze it for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm.
What if my cassava cake turns out too soggy?
Ensure that you’ve properly drained the thawed cassava before mixing it into the batter. Pressing it through a fine mesh strainer helps remove excess moisture, which is critical for achieving that perfect chewy texture. Also, remember to use room temperature ingredients for an even bake!
Is this healthy cassava cake suitable for everyone?
While this cake is gluten-free and a delightful treat for many, it’s wise to note that it contains sweetened condensed milk, which may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute coconut milk and use coconut cream instead for that creamy custard topping. Always check ingredient labels to accommodate any dietary restrictions.
How can I enhance the flavor of my cassava cake?
Add a layer of shredded coconut or a hint of pandan extract to the batter for an extra flavor boost! Both variations can take your healthy cassava cake to the next level, creating a delightful twist that not only tastes amazing but adds visual appeal as well.
Deliciously Healthy Cassava Cake Recipe You’ll Love!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.
- Drain the thawed cassava by pressing it through a fine mesh strainer.
- Mix all the cake ingredients in a large bowl until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- Whisk together the custard topping ingredients in a separate bowl until well blended.
- Remove the cake from the oven, pour the custard topping evenly over it, and return to bake for another 15-20 minutes.
- Cool the cake at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.