UmganuZest Bliss Cake

The UmganuZest Bliss Cake is a unique cake that combines flavors from traditional African wild fruit known as Umganu, or marula, with the zestiness of citrus and a touch of modern baking artistry. This exquisite dessert brings together the sweet and tangy tastes into an unforgettable culinary experience, ideal for nearly any celebratory occasion.

History of UmganuZest Bliss Cake

In Southern Africa, the umganu fruit has been used for centuries in a variety of dishes, drinks, and even traditional fermented beverages. Its tangy flavor, coupled with a distinct sweetness, makes it a favorite among locals. The UmganuZest Bliss Cake is a contemporary take on the classic use of this fruit, integrating its flavors into a Western-style dessert that pays homage to both African culinary traditions and modern baking techniques.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Sugar - 1 and 1/2 cups
• Baking Powder - 2 teaspoons
• Baking Soda - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Unsalted Butter - 1/2 cup at room temperature
• Eggs - 3 large
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
• Buttermilk - 1 cup
• Umganu fruit puree - 1 cup
• Zest of two lemons
• Cream Cheese - 8 oz, room temperature
• Powdered Sugar - 1 and 1/2 cups
• Zest of lime for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather all ingredients and ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Alternately add the dry mixture and buttermilk to the butter-sugar-egg mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Gently fold in the umganu fruit puree and lemon zest until just combined.

Cooking Process

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pans evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Use a cooking timer to keep track. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, mix the cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness to taste by adding more powdered sugar if necessary.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving platter and spread with a generous amount of the cream cheese frosting. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Garnish with a sprinkling of lime zest for added flavor and presentation.

Enjoying Your UmganuZest Bliss Cake

This cake is best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, highlighting its sweet, fruity, and tangy flavors. It invites a lovely pairing with a citrusy or herbal tea, which complements the citrus zest and enhances the unique taste of the umganu fruit. Whether serving it at a party, family gathering, or special event, this cake is sure to impress with its distinctive flavors and delightful texture.

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. If you want to prepare in advance, this cake can be frozen without the frosting for up to 2 months. Simply wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.