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A moist African cake with pineapple flavor, scented with nutmeg. Easy to prepare with a silicone mold, it pairs perfectly with tea or coffee.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Ghanaian-style Cake (Ghana cake) traces its roots to the colonial era, when British tea cakes were adapted with local flavors such as pineapple and nutmeg. Over time it became a beloved home‑baked treat that reflects Ghana's blend of foreign influences and indigenous tastes. It is often enjoyed as a comforting snack or dessert in everyday Ghanaian life.
In Ghana's coastal regions the cake frequently includes grated coconut for added texture, while the Ashanti region may incorporate ground peanuts for a richer flavor. Some northern versions substitute part of the wheat flour with millet flour, giving the cake a slightly denser crumb. These variations showcase how local ingredients shape the classic Ghanaian-style Cake (Ghana cake).
Traditionally the cake is served at room temperature, sliced into generous pieces and enjoyed alongside hot tea or coffee. It may be lightly drizzled with a pineapple jam glaze or simply dusted with powdered sugar. This presentation highlights the cake's moist texture and fragrant pineapple‑nutmeg aroma.
Ghanaian-style Cake (Ghana cake) is a staple at birthdays, weddings, and communal festivals such as Homowo and Easter. It is also prepared for family gatherings and church events, symbolizing hospitality and joy. Its sweet, moist profile makes it suitable for both casual tea times and formal celebrations.
The authentic recipe calls for granulated sugar, unsalted butter (or traditional margarine), eggs, unsweetened condensed milk, and pineapple extract, with a pinch of nutmeg for spice. Acceptable substitutes include using plant‑based butter for a dairy‑free version or replacing condensed milk with evaporated milk mixed with a little extra sugar. However, the pineapple extract and nutmeg are essential for the signature flavor of Ghanaian-style Cake (Ghana cake).
Common errors include over‑mixing the batter, which creates a tough, dense crumb, and under‑baking, leaving a soggy center. Using melted butter instead of softened butter can also affect the cake’s rise and texture. Measuring the pineapple extract too heavily may overpower the subtle nutmeg aroma, so stick to the recommended amount.
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, and the edges start to pull away slightly from the silicone mold. The top should be a golden‑brown color with a slight springiness to the touch. Allow it to cool in the mold for a few minutes before unmolding to prevent breakage.
The YouTube channel AMA'S KITCHEN specializes in easy‑to‑follow Ghanaian home cooking tutorials, showcasing both classic dishes and modern twists for everyday meals. It focuses on clear, step‑by‑step demonstrations that make Ghanaian flavors accessible to a global audience. The channel also highlights seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
AMA'S KITCHEN emphasizes simplicity, using readily available ingredients while preserving authentic Ghanaian taste profiles. The style combines thorough explanations with visual cues, encouraging viewers to replicate traditional recipes confidently. The channel’s philosophy is to celebrate Ghanaian culinary heritage while making it approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
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