Indulge in this vibrant and exotic dessert that showcases the delightful flavors and colors of dragon fruit! This Pink Dragon Fruit Layer Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. With layers of soft sponge cake, tangy raspberry chia jam, and creamy dragon fruit mousse, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Sponge Cake:
- 1 ⅓ cups buckwheat flour
- ½ cup fine shredded coconut
- ¾ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp pink pitaya powder
- ¼ cup canned coconut cream
- ⅛ cup water
- ¼-½ cup light-colored sweetener (e.g., rice malt syrup or maple syrup)
- ¼ cup beetroot juice
- 3 tbsp aquafaba
Raspberry Chia Jam:
- ¼ cup raspberries
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp light-colored sweetener
Dragon Fruit Mousse:
- ¾ cup cashews (soaked overnight)
- ¾ cup canned coconut cream
- 3 tbsp light-colored sweetener
- 1 tbsp pink pitaya powder
- ½ tsp agar powder
Jelly:
- 1 tsp agar powder
- Water (sufficient to dissolve)
- 3 tbsp light-colored sweetener
- 1 tbsp pink pitaya powder
Directions
Sponge Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C). Line and grease a 15cm cake tin.
- Mix the dry ingredients (buckwheat flour, shredded coconut, baking powder, baking soda, and pink pitaya powder) in one bowl. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients (coconut cream, water, sweetener, and beetroot juice).
- Whisk the aquafaba until bubbly and gently fold it into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and bake for 20 minutes. Let it cool completely.
Chia Jam Layer:
- Mash the raspberries with chia seeds and sweetener. Spread the mixture over the cooled sponge cake.
Dragon Fruit Mousse:
- Blend the soaked cashews with half of the coconut cream, sweetener, and pitaya powder until smooth.
- Heat the remaining coconut cream with agar powder until it dissolves. Combine this with the cashew mixture and pour it over the sponge cake. Chill until set.
Prepare Jelly:
- Simmer agar powder in water until dissolved. Add sweetener and pitaya powder, mix well.
- Pour the jelly mixture over the set mousse layer. Chill until firm.
To Serve:
- Carefully remove the cake from the tin.
- Slice and garnish with fresh dragon fruit slices, edible flowers, or shredded coconut for an enhanced presentation.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Tips
- Adjust the pink hue by varying the amount of pitaya powder.
- Ensure a smooth mousse by blending the cashews thoroughly.
- Garnish with fresh dragon fruit slices, edible flowers, or shredded coconut for an enhanced presentation.
- Enjoy crafting this beautiful creation that’s sure to be a conversation starter at any gathering! 🌸✨
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different type of flour for the sponge cake?
A1: Yes, you can substitute buckwheat flour with all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend if you prefer.
Q2: How long can I store this cake?
A2: The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered to maintain freshness.
Q3: Can I use fresh dragon fruit instead of pitaya powder?
A3: Fresh dragon fruit can be used, but it may alter the consistency and color intensity of the mousse and jelly layers.
Q4: What can I use instead of aquafaba?
A4: You can use egg whites as a substitute for aquafaba if you are not following a vegan diet.
Chef’s Advice
For the best results, make sure to use high-quality ingredients, especially for the pink pitaya powder and coconut cream. Blending the cashews thoroughly will ensure a smooth and creamy mousse. Be patient while setting each layer in the refrigerator to achieve clean and distinct layers. Garnishing with fresh dragon fruit slices or edible flowers will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a touch of elegance to your cake. Enjoy this exotic and delightful dessert!
The Allure of Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit, with its vibrant color and unique flavor, adds an exotic touch to any dessert. This cake leverages the stunning pink hue of pitaya powder to create a visually appealing and delicious treat. Dragon fruit is not only beautiful but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for those looking to add a healthy twist to their desserts. The combination of dragon fruit with the other ingredients results in a cake that is as nourishing as it is delightful.
The Versatility of Aquafaba
Aquafaba, the liquid from cooked chickpeas, is a fantastic vegan substitute for egg whites. It helps to create a light and airy texture in the sponge cake, ensuring that the cake is soft and fluffy. Whisking aquafaba until it’s bubbly before incorporating it into the batter mimics the properties of eggs, making it an excellent binding and leavening agent. This ingredient is a game-changer for vegan baking, allowing for a wide range of textures and flavors without the use of animal products.
The Benefits of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a superfood that offers numerous health benefits, including being high in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and various micronutrients. In this recipe, chia seeds are used to create a raspberry jam that adds a layer of tangy sweetness to the cake. The chia seeds help to thicken the jam naturally, without the need for gelatin or pectin. This not only makes the jam healthier but also ensures that it sets properly, providing a firm layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft mousse.
Creating the Perfect Mousse
The dragon fruit mousse is the highlight of this cake, providing a creamy and smooth layer that complements the dense sponge and the tangy jam. Using soaked cashews blended with coconut cream creates a rich and velvety texture. The addition of pink pitaya powder not only enhances the flavor but also gives the mousse its distinctive color. Ensuring that the cashews are thoroughly blended and that the agar is properly dissolved is key to achieving the perfect consistency for the mousse.
Conclusion
The Pink Dragon Fruit Layer Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines exotic flavors with stunning visuals. Each layer, from the soft sponge to the creamy mousse and the tangy jam, works harmoniously to create a cake that is as delicious as it is beautiful. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can create a dessert that will impress your guests and become a centerpiece at any gathering. Enjoy crafting and sharing this vibrant creation!