The Danish Dream Cake, or “Drømmekage” as it is known in Denmark, is a classic, nostalgic dessert that combines a moist vanilla sponge cake with a rich, caramelized coconut topping. This cake has been a favorite for generations, often served at family gatherings and celebrations. Its origins trace back to the 1960s when it became popular after winning a cake contest. The simplicity of the ingredients and the indulgent topping make it a true crowd-pleaser. Here’s how you can make this delightful cake at home.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Coconut Topping:
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the sides for easy removal.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the milk. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which will help the cake rise properly.
- Slowly pour the cooled butter and milk mixture into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to combine.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
- Stir in the vanilla extract to add a subtle, sweet flavor to the batter.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly pressed.
- Prepare the Coconut Topping:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the coconut topping. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded coconut. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture is thick and glossy. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Top and Finish the Cake:
- Once the cake has finished baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm coconut topping over the cake, spreading it evenly across the surface with a spatula.
- Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is bubbling and slightly caramelized.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper overhang and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice into squares and serve. The cake is delicious on its own but can also be paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the ingredients to combine more smoothly, resulting in a better-textured cake.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, fold the mixture gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, heavy cake.
- Watch the Topping: Keep an eye on the cake during the final bake after adding the coconut topping. You want the topping to be golden and bubbly, but not burnt.
The Danish Dream Cake is aptly named because of its dream-like combination of soft, tender cake and a gooey, caramelized coconut topping. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual afternoon tea to a celebratory dessert. Its rich, buttery flavor and contrasting textures make it a dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cake is straightforward to make and will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy a slice of Danish tradition with this timeless recipe!
