Homemade cakes are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to store-bought desserts. Especially during winters or festive occasions, a cake made with jaggery, wheat flour, and dry fruits offers both taste and nutrition without the need for an oven.
According to homemaker Sumitra Maurya, this jaggery and wheat flour cake can be easily prepared using a pressure cooker or a deep pan. The cake is soft, mildly nutty, and naturally sweet, making it a perfect treat for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients Required for Jaggery Wheat Cake
To prepare this healthy cake at home, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1½ cups wheat flour
- Slightly more than ½ cup grated jaggery
- ½ cup melted butter
- Slightly more than ½ cup milk
- 1½ cups thick yoghurt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
For dry fruits and nuts:
- 1 cup chopped raisins, dates, figs, and cranberries
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts, almonds, and cashews
Preparing the Cake Batter
Start by washing the dry fruits and nuts thoroughly. Soak them in lukewarm water for 20–30 minutes to soften them and enhance their natural flavour.
Meanwhile, gently heat the milk in a pan without bringing it to a boil. Add the grated jaggery and stir continuously on low heat until it dissolves completely. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool.
Once cooled, add melted butter, yoghurt, vanilla essence, and vinegar to the jaggery-milk mixture. Whisk well until smooth and evenly combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently. Finally, fold in the soaked dry fruits and nuts evenly.
How to Bake Without an Oven
Take a heavy pan or pressure cooker and spread a thick layer of salt at the bottom. Place a stand or an inverted steel bowl inside.
Line a cake tin with butter paper and pour the prepared batter into it. Place the tin on the stand inside the pan or cooker. If using a pressure cooker, remove the whistle before closing the lid.
Cook on very low heat for about 50–55 minutes. Avoid opening the lid frequently to ensure even cooking.
Serving and Storage Tips
Once the cake is cooked, remove it carefully and allow it to cool completely. Garnish with extra dry fruits before serving for better presentation and added flavour.
This jaggery and wheat flour cake is soft, wholesome, and perfect for winter evenings, festive celebrations, or as a healthy homemade dessert with tea or coffee.
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