The Dr Bird Cake is a delightful Jamaican dessert, named after the Jamaican national bird, the "Doctor Bird" or Swallow-tailed Hummingbird. This cake, known for its rich, moist texture and sweet flavor, embodies the tropical vibrancy of Jamaica with its key ingredient, pineapple. Here's a straightforward recipe to recreate this Caribbean treat at home, perfect for any occasion from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
Ingredients for Dr Bird Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1⁄2 cups granulated sugar
- 3⁄4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, with juice
- 1⁄2 cup flaked coconut
- 4 eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional, pecans or walnuts)
- Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1⁄4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Additional coconut and nuts for garnish
Preparation Steps
Preheating and Preparation
Before starting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining with parchment paper.
Mixing the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well distributed.
- Add the oil, eggs, crushed pineapple with its juice, vanilla extract, and nuts if using. Blend thoroughly until the batter is smooth.
- Fold in the flaked coconut to ensure even distribution throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top for an even bake.
Baking and Cooling
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
🌟 Note: Keeping the cake in the pan for a short time helps it retain moisture.
Frosting the Cake
- While the cake is cooling, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
- Once the cake is cool, apply the frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
- Sprinkle additional coconut and chopped nuts on top for decoration, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Dessert: Serve slices of Dr Bird Cake on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
- At Gatherings: The cake’s beautiful presentation makes it a great centerpiece for parties or potlucks.
- Morning Delight: Pair with coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day.
Storage and Longevity
To keep the cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer preservation, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze individual slices for up to three months.
This recipe reflects the essence of Jamaican cuisine, which blends native ingredients with influences from various cultures. Pineapple, a key element in this recipe, isn’t just a flavor; it symbolizes hospitality and the warm, inviting spirit of the island. Baking a Dr Bird Cake not only brings a taste of Jamaica to your home but also serves as a delightful culinary journey through its vibrant culture.
Why is it called Dr Bird Cake?
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The Dr Bird Cake is named after the national bird of Jamaica, known as the “Doctor Bird” or Swallow-tailed Hummingbird, reflecting the tropical flair and unique ingredients like pineapple.
Can I substitute ingredients in Dr Bird Cake?
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While pineapple is key, you can experiment with substituting some of the oil with applesauce or yogurt for a healthier version. Nuts can also be omitted or replaced with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.
How do I know when the cake is done?
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Insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Also, watch for the cake to pull away slightly from the edges of the pan.
