German Coconut Cake

• • 175g / 6½oz self-raising flour (if using plain or all-purpose flour, add an extra 1½ tsp baking powder)
  • 120g / 4½oz granulated sugar

• • 175g / 6½oz vegetable or sunflower oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 30g / 1oz desiccated coconut

• • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Topping:

• • Jam
  • Extra desiccated coconut

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cake Tin:
   • • Grease and flour a 900g (2 pound) loaf tin. Lard is recommended for best results, but you can use butter or oil.
     • Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F) or gas mark 4. If your oven is fan-assisted, set it to 150°C (302°F).

2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • • In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs and oil. Use sunflower oil for extra lightness and moisture.
     • Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, desiccated coconut, and salt to the bowl.
   • • If you don’t like coconut, you can substitute it with raisins, sultanas, or lemon zest, or simply leave it as a plain vanilla cake.
     • Add the baking powder and self-raising flour (or plain flour with the additional baking powder) to the mixture.
     • Whisk everything together until well combined. The batter will be a bit runnier than ordinary cake batter, which is expected.

3. Bake the Cake:
   • • Pour the batter into the greased and floured loaf tin.
     • Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes.
   • After 50 minutes, check the cake with a cocktail stick. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it’s still sticky, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Cool and Decorate:
   • • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
   • Carefully take the cake out of the tin. If it’s reluctant to come out, run a thin-bladed knife around the edges of the tin.
5. Add the Toppings:
   • • Spread a generous amount of your favorite jam on top of the cake. Strawberry jam is recommended.
   • Sprinkle extra desiccated coconut over the top of the jam.
6. Serve:
   • • Cut into slices and enjoy. This cake is fantastic served on its own or with custard for a delicious dessert.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful dessert or snack.

• Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.

Cooking Tips:

• • Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.

• Use fresh, high-quality desiccated coconut for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have self-raising flour, remember to add the extra baking powder if using plain or all-purpose flour.