Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe (2024)

The Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that originated in Zimbabwe. It’s a unique cake that combines different flavors and textures, making it a favorite treat among many.

This cake is not only delicious but also offers some health benefits. It contains various natural ingredients that can provide essential nutrients for the body. It’s rich in carbohydrates, which provide energy for daily activities. The cake also includes some nuts and dried fruits, which are good sources of healthy fats and fiber, promoting heart health and aiding digestion.

One of the key components of the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe is the use of local ingredients, adding an authentic touch to the cake’s taste and cultural significance. The cake often uses traditional nuts and fruits found in Zimbabwe, which brings out the distinct flavors of the region.

Want more ideas to round-out your Recipe Box from Africa?
A lot of great options are in these posts!

11 Seychelles Recipes To Create At Home

Furthermore, the cake is made with love and care, often shared during special occasions and gatherings. It’s a symbol of togetherness and celebration, making it even more enjoyable to savor.

The Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Its combination of sweet and nutty flavors appeals to many palates, and the variety of textures adds to the overall experience. It’s perfect as an after-meal dessert or a snack during tea time.

You May Want to Join The World Recipes With Our Big Escape

Share your own recipes in our Facebook Group. Find recipes from all over the world. Learn more about International Cuisine and how you can surprise your family with new and exciting foods from all over the world.

For More Photos Visit Our Instagram at World Recipes Daily

In conclusion, the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe is a scrumptious treat with a unique blend of flavors and textures, originating from Zimbabwe. Beyond its delicious taste, it also offers some health benefits, making it a delightful choice for dessert lovers. Whether shared during celebrations or enjoyed as a daily indulgence, this cake is sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite.

How To Make Our Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe

Ingredients (8 Servings)

Cupcakes

2 teaspoons active dry yeast
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup warm milk
2 1/2 cups (300 grams) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup softened butter
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg
1/4 teaspoon salt

Icing

1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 Tbsp water
red food coloring

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1/4 cup of warm milk. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.

a. Measure out 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast.
b. Pour 1/4 cup of warm milk into the bowl with yeast.
c. Stir the mixture gently to combine.

2. In a separate large mixing bowl, add 3/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of softened butter, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 large egg. Mix them together until smooth and creamy.

a. Measure out 3/4 cup of sugar and add it to the mixing bowl.
b. Add 1/4 cup of softened butter to the bowl.
c. Pour 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract into the bowl.
d. Crack one large egg and add it to the mixture.
e. Mix all the ingredients together until they form a smooth and creamy texture.

3. Combine the yeast mixture from step 1 with the mixture from step 2. Stir well to create a consistent batter.

a. Pour the yeast mixture into the large mixing bowl with the other ingredients.
b. Stir the contents thoroughly until you have a well-mixed batter.

4. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour to the batter. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.

a. Measure out 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour.
b. Slowly add the flour to the batter while stirring continuously.
c. Mix until there are no visible lumps in the batter.

5. Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of salt into the batter and stir until evenly distributed.

a. Measure out 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
b. Sprinkle the salt over the batter and mix it in.

6. Cover the mixing bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the batter rest for about 1 hour. It should double in size during this time due to the yeast’s fermentation process.

a. Place a clean kitchen towel over the mixing bowl to cover it completely.
b. Allow the batter to rest undisturbed for approximately 1 hour.

7. Preheat your oven to the required temperature (usually 350°F or 180°C).

a. Set your oven temperature to 350°F (180°C).

8. Grease a cake pan with butter or use parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

a. Use butter to grease the cake pan evenly.
b. Alternatively, place parchment paper inside the cake pan.

9. Pour the batter into the greased cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

a. Gently pour the batter into the cake pan.
b. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the pan’s surface.

10. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

a. Place the cake pan in the preheated oven.
b. Set a timer for 25 minutes and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

11. While the cake is baking, prepare the icing by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of water. Add a few drops of red food coloring to achieve the desired color.

a. Measure out 1 cup of powdered sugar and place it in a bowl.
b. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water to the powdered sugar.
c. Mix the ingredients until the icing reaches a smooth consistency.
d. Add a few drops of red food coloring to the icing and mix until you achieve the desired color.

12. Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

a. Take the cake out of the oven.
b. Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes.

13. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the prepared icing over it, covering the top completely.

a. Carefully drizzle the icing over the cake’s surface, ensuring it covers the entire top.

14. Allow the icing to set before slicing and serving the delicious Zimbabwe Candy Cake.

a. Let the icing set for a few minutes to avoid it from being too runny.
b. Slice the cake into portions and serve it to your delighted guests.

Estimated Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed forthe Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe

Cake pan
Mixing bowl
Small bowl
Spatula
Oven

Best Way to Store Leftovers From Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe

a. Use an airtight container to store leftover cake to keep it fresh for longer.
b. Consider refrigerating the cake to extend its shelf life.
c. Avoid leaving the cake uncovered to prevent it from drying out.
d. For best results, consume the leftover cake within 2-3 days.
e. Freezing the cake in a freezer-safe container can preserve it for several weeks.
f. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap before placing it in the container for added protection.

Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for smoother blending.
Grease the cake pan generously to prevent the cake from sticking.
Let the cake cool completely before applying the icing for better consistency.
To check if the cake is fully baked, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
Experiment with different food coloring shades to achieve your desired cake appearance.
Add chopped nuts or fruits to the batter for added texture and flavor.

Side Dishes and Desserts Forthe Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe

a. Fresh fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits.
b. Vanilla ice cream to complement the sweetness of the cake.
c. Whipped cream with a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a creamy contrast.
d. Chocolate sauce drizzled over the cake for a decadent treat.
e. Mixed nuts and dried fruits for an extra crunchy element.
f. Warm custard sauce to add richness to the cake experience.

How To Serve the Cuban Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe

a. Slice the cake into equal portions.
b. Place each slice on individual serving plates.
c. Drizzle the prepared icing over each slice.
d. Garnish with additional nuts or fruits if desired.
e. Serve the cake with a side dish of your choice.
f. Enjoy the Zimbabwe Candy Cake with your guests!

Dietary Substitution For the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe

1. Vegan Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Substitute the large egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg.
b. Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
c. Use plant-based milk like almond milk instead of cow’s milk.
d. Opt for maple syrup or agave syrup as a sweetener instead of honey.
e. Choose vegan food coloring or natural coloring alternatives like beetroot juice.

2. Gluten-Free Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular all-purpose flour.
b. Ensure the vanilla extract and food coloring are gluten-free.
c. Verify that the powdered sugar used in the icing is gluten-free.
d. Substitute the warm milk with a dairy-free and gluten-free alternative.
e. Check for gluten-free labels on all ingredients to avoid cross-contamination.

3. Vegetarian Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. The recipe is already vegetarian-friendly and doesn’t require any substitutions.

4. Mediterranean Diet Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
b. Opt for olive oil instead of softened butter.
c. Use natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup.
d. Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to enhance the Mediterranean flavor.
e. Incorporate dried fruits like figs or dates for a Mediterranean twist.

5. Keto Diet Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Replace the sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia.
b. Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour.
c. Substitute the warm milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
d. Use unsalted butter in place of softened butter.
e. Choose a natural food coloring or skip it to reduce carb intake.

6. Heart-Healthy Diet Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Opt for whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
b. Use heart-healthy fats like avocado oil instead of butter.
c. Choose a natural sweetener like honey for a healthier alternative.
d. Add heart-healthy nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra nutrition.
e. Use beetroot juice as a natural food coloring option for heart health benefits.

7. Paleo Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour.
b. Use ghee instead of softened butter for a paleo-friendly fat source.
c. Replace sugar with a paleo-approved sweetener like coconut sugar.
d. Use natural food coloring options like beetroot powder.
e. Choose almond milk or coconut milk as a paleo-friendly milk alternative.

8. Low Carb Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Use almond flour or flaxseed meal instead of all-purpose flour.
b. Substitute sugar with a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol.
c. Opt for unsalted butter to control sodium intake.
d. Choose unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a low-carb milk option.
e. Skip the food coloring to minimize carb content.

9. Whole 30 Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour.
b. Replace sugar with a Whole30-approved sweetener like date paste.
c. Opt for ghee instead of softened butter for Whole30 compliance.
d. Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk as a Whole30-friendly milk option.
e. Choose natural food coloring alternatives like turmeric powder.

10. Weight Watchers Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Use whole wheat flour to reduce points compared to all-purpose flour.
b. Opt for sugar substitutes like Stevia to lower points from sugar.
c. Choose a low-fat milk option like skim milk or almond milk to save points.
d. Use fat-free Greek yogurt as a butter substitute to reduce points.
e. Skip the food coloring to save points.

11. Low Fat Options for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Use fat-free Greek yogurt instead of softened butter to reduce fat content.
b. Opt for skim milk or low-fat milk as a lower-fat milk option.
c. Replace sugar with a natural sweetener like applesauce to reduce fat.
d. Use egg whites instead of a whole egg to lower fat content.
e. Choose a low-fat, natural food coloring alternative like beetroot juice.

12. Vegetable Variations for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe:

a. Add grated carrots to the batter for a carrot-cake inspired version.
b. Mix in mashed sweet potatoes for a sweet and nutritious twist.
c. Incorporate zucchini for a moist and vegetable-rich cake option.
d. Blend in pumpkin puree for a seasonal and flavorful variation.
e. Use finely chopped spinach for a green and nutrient-packed cake.

Please note that the given substitutions are general suggestions, and individual dietary needs and preferences may vary. It’s always recommended to check labels, choose quality ingredients, and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

FAQ About the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe

What is the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe, and what are its main ingredients?
The Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that originates from Zimbabwe. The main ingredients include active dry yeast, sugar, warm milk, all-purpose flour, softened butter, vanilla extract, a large egg, and a pinch of salt.

Can the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe be made vegan-friendly?
Yes, the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe can be made vegan-friendly. You can substitute the large egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg, use coconut oil or vegan margarine instead of butter, and choose plant-based milk like almond milk. Additionally, opt for natural food coloring or vegan food coloring alternatives to keep it vegan.

Are there gluten-free options available for the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! You can make the Zimbabwe Candy Cake gluten-free by using gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensuring that all other ingredients, such as vanilla extract and powdered sugar, are also gluten-free.

Is the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
Yes, the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe can be adapted for a low-carb or keto diet. Replace regular sugar with a low-carb sweetener like stevia or erythritol, and use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour. Opt for unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk as a milk alternative to reduce carb content.

What are some possible side dishes to serve with the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe?
There are various side dishes that pair well with the Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe. Consider serving it with fresh fruit salad, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, mixed nuts, or warm custard sauce to enhance the overall dessert experience.

Final Thoughts

The Zimbabwe Candy Cake Recipe is a delightful and versatile dessert originating from Zimbabwe. It combines active dry yeast, sugar, warm milk, all-purpose flour, softened butter, vanilla extract, a large egg, and a pinch of salt to create a scrumptious treat. The cake offers various health benefits with its wholesome ingredients, including essential nutrients from nuts and dried fruits. It caters to different dietary preferences, from vegan to gluten-free and keto diets. Serving this cake with a side of fresh fruit salad, ice cream, or whipped cream enhances its delightful flavors. Whether for special occasions or daily indulgence, this Zimbabwean delight brings joy to any gathering.