The cake specifically mentioned as being made from beetroot is Beetroot cake.
Understanding Beetroot Cake
Beetroot cake is a popular type of cake that incorporates grated or pureed beetroot into the batter. As highlighted in the reference, this cake is known for being a "very popular beetroot cake recipe". It serves as an excellent way to add vegetables to baking, sometimes even described as a method for "sneaking veg to children".
Why Use Beetroot in Cake?
- Moisture: Beetroot adds significant moisture to the cake, resulting in a tender and soft crumb.
- Natural Sweetness: Beetroot contains natural sugars, which can enhance the cake's sweetness and potentially reduce the need for as much added sugar.
- Colour: Beetroot imparts a lovely subtle reddish-pink hue to the cake, which can be appealing.
- Nutrients: It adds a touch of extra fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
Popular Variations
According to the reference, the versatile beetroot cake recipe can be easily tweaked:
- Alternative Vegetables: Instead of solely using beetroot, you could substitute it with carrot or use a mixture of both.
- Chocolate Beetroot Cake: For a decadent twist, you can add approximately 50g of cocoa powder to the recipe to create a chocolate beetroot cake. The earthiness of beetroot pairs surprisingly well with chocolate, often enhancing the cocoa flavour and adding moisture.
These variations demonstrate the adaptability of the core beetroot cake concept, allowing bakers to experiment with different flavours and textures while still benefiting from the moisture and natural sweetness provided by root vegetables.