Craving a sweet treat that’s both easy to make and absolutely irresistible? Čupavci, or coconut-filled cake squares, are the perfect solution! These soft, spongy squares are drenched in a rich milk-chocolate syrup and then coated in coconut, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun baking project, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, these Čupavci will be a hit!
Ingredients for the Cake:
- 5 eggs
- 15 tablespoons of sugar
- 100 ml of milk
- 100 ml of vegetable oil
- 250 g of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
Ingredients for the Syrup:
- 500 ml of milk
- 100 g of butter
- 200 g of chocolate
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
Instructions:
1. Make the Cake Batter
Start by whisking the eggs and sugar together until you get a thick, fluffy mixture that’s light in color. This step is important for the spongy texture of the cake, so be sure to mix it well. Add the oil and milk, mixing until the batter is smooth.
2. Add Dry Ingredients
Next, sift the flour and baking powder together, then gradually add them to the wet mixture. Continue mixing until the batter is smooth and fully combined. The consistency should be thick, but still pourable.
3. Prepare the Baking Tray
Line a 25x35 cm baking tray with parchment paper and pour the batter into it. Smooth out the surface with a spatula. To ensure the cake bakes evenly, gently tap the tray on the counter to release any air bubbles.
4. Bake the Cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cake for about 25 minutes. However, since oven temperatures can vary, make sure to check the cake by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s ready. You’ll know it’s done when the sides of the cake begin to pull away from the edges of the tray.
5. Make the Syrup
While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the milk, butter, chocolate, and sugar. Heat it over low heat, stirring until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth. Once it's combined, remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Cut the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, cut it into squares. I like to use a ruler (just like Džeka’s mom does!) to ensure the squares are even. Start by cutting the cake lengthwise, then cut crosswise to make perfect little squares.
7. Soak and Coat the Cake
Now comes the fun part! Use a spoon to dip each square into the warm milk-chocolate syrup, ensuring each piece is fully soaked. Then, roll each square in shredded coconut until it's fully coated. Repeat with the remaining squares.
Serving Suggestions:
These Čupavci are perfect for dessert or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Their sweet, rich chocolate flavor and coconut coating make them a crowd favorite, and they’ll disappear quickly!
Baking Tips:
- Consistency of Cake: If the batter seems too runny, add a bit more flour to reach the desired consistency.
- Soaking the Cake: If you prefer a lighter texture, you can briefly dip the squares in the syrup for a quicker soak.
- Storage: Store leftover Čupavci in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They’ll stay moist and fresh!
Final Thoughts:
These homemade Čupavci are a sweet indulgence everyone will love! The combination of soft cake, rich chocolate syrup, and coconut coating makes for an unforgettable treat. Whether you're baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cake squares are sure to impress.
Stay tuned for more delicious and creative baking recipes in future posts! I'll be sharing even more fun treats, so get ready to bake something sweet soon. 😊