Qudrat Qader cake is one of the famous and beloved desserts in many Arabic-speaking countries. It is distinguished by its unique flavor and moist texture. This cake provides a range of essential vitamins and nutrients that supply the body with energy and necessary nutrition. The cake is made using eggs, milk, and flour, making it a good source of protein and calcium, which are important for bone health and muscle development. Additionally, vitamins such as Vitamin A and B enhance eye health and stimulate metabolism. However, it should be consumed in moderation, as excessive sugar can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of certain diseases. Nonetheless, this cake remains a delicious and ideal dessert for special gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• A pinch of salt

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with sugar and vanilla until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the flour, milk, and oil while continuously mixing.
4. Add the baking powder and salt, then mix well.
5. Pour the batter into a buttered cake mold, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives:

Here are some alternatives to ingredients in case you have allergies or prefer plant-based options:

• Milk: Regular milk can be replaced with coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk, which are plant-based and lactose-free options.
• Eggs: Eggs can be substituted with flaxseeds or chia seeds by mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg.
• Butter: Butter can be replaced with coconut oil or olive oil, which provide healthy unsaturated fats.

Some Healthy Alternatives:

• Sugar: White sugar can be replaced with brown sugar, natural honey, or plant-based sweeteners such as stevia or erythritol. These alternatives have a lower glycemic index and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Vegetable Oil: Olive oil can be used instead of vegetable oil, as it contains heart-healthy unsaturated fats.
• White Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative to white flour. Whole wheat flour is rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and helps you feel full longer.
• Milk: Regular milk can be replaced with plant-based milk such as almond milk or coconut milk. These options are lactose-free and suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
• Eggs: If you have an egg allergy or follow a vegan diet, you can replace eggs with plant-based options like ground flaxseeds or plant-based egg whites.

Decoration and Presentation:

You can enhance the appearance and flavor of Qudrat Qader cake using the following ideas for decoration and presentation:

• Fruit Decoration: Decorate the cake with fresh fruits such as berries, bananas, or strawberries. These fruits add a delicious flavor and provide nutritional benefits like vitamins and minerals.
• Light Sauces: Add chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or even strawberry sauce to the surface of the cake to enhance its flavor.
• Using Nuts: Sprinkle roasted nuts like almonds or walnuts over the cake after baking to add a unique taste and increase its nutritional value.

How to Store the Cake:

To keep Qudrat Qader Cake fresh, follow these tips:

• Refrigeration: Place the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 2–3 days.
• Freezing: If you need to store the cake for a longer period, you can freeze it in freezer-safe bags. To maintain its quality, consider slicing the cake into smaller pieces before freezing.

FAQs:

Can the sugar in this recipe be reduced?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or brown sugar. These alternatives have a lower glycemic index and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Can whole wheat flour be used instead of white flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used as a healthy substitute. It contains fiber that supports digestive health but may require adjustments to the liquid content in the recipe.

Can Qudrat Qader Cake be made without eggs?
Yes, eggs can be replaced with plant-based alternatives such as flaxseeds or plant-based egg whites.

How can Qudrat Qader Cake be made healthier?
You can use healthy ingredients like coconut oil or add nutritional supplements like chia seeds or flaxseeds to boost its nutritional value.

Can Qudrat Qader Cake be stored?
Yes, the cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. It can also be frozen for a longer shelf life.

What is the best way to serve Qudrat Qader Cake?
It can be served with light sauces like chocolate or caramel sauce, or garnished with fresh fruits such as berries or bananas.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Qudret Qader Cake Ingredients

Nutritional Values for Each Ingredient (Based on Quantities Used):

1. Sugar (1 cup):
   • Calories: 774
   • Carbohydrates: 200 grams
   • Nutritional Benefit: Provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation to avoid blood sugar spikes.
2. Flour (1 cup):
   • Calories: 455
   • Carbohydrates: 95 grams
   • Protein: 13 grams
   • Nutritional Benefit: A great source of energy and protein to aid muscle repair.
3. Milk (1/2 cup):
   • Calories: 60
   • Protein: 3 grams
   • Calcium: 150 mg (15% of daily requirement)
   • Nutritional Benefit: Rich in calcium to support bone and teeth health and protein for muscle building.
4. Vegetable Oil (1/4 cup):
   • Calories: 480
   • Fats: 56 grams
   • Nutritional Benefit: Contains healthy fats that support brain functions and cell growth.
5. Eggs (3):
   • Calories: 210
   • Protein: 18 grams
   • Vitamin A: 270 IU (5% of daily requirement)
   • Nutritional Benefit: High in protein for muscle building and Vitamin A for eye health.
6. Vanilla (1 teaspoon):
   • Calories: 12
   • Nutritional Benefit: Adds a distinct flavor and contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation.
7. Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon):
   • Calories: 1
   • Nutritional Benefit: Improves cake texture, making it lighter and fluffier.
8. Salt (pinch):
   • Sodium: 500 mg
   • Nutritional Benefit: Essential for nerve function and water balance but should be used in moderation.

Health Benefits of Cake Ingredients:

1. Protein:
   • Milk and eggs provide protein necessary for muscle growth and tissue repair.
2. Calcium:
   • Milk contributes to stronger bones and teeth, especially for children and the elderly.
3. Vitamin A:
   • Eggs are an excellent source of Vitamin A, which enhances eye health and maintains healthy skin.
4. Fiber (if using whole wheat flour):
   • Fiber aids digestion and promotes longer-lasting satiety.
5. Healthy Fats:
   • Vegetable oil offers unsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health and brain function.
6. Antioxidants:
   • Vanilla adds a touch of antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.

General Notes:

• Moderation: Despite the nutritional benefits, Qudret Qader Cake should be consumed in moderation due to its high-calorie and fat content.
• Healthier Options: Sugar can be reduced or replaced with natural alternatives like honey, and whole wheat flour can be used to improve nutritional value.
• Serving Variety: Adding fresh fruits or light sauces enhances taste and boosts nutritional content.

The cake combines delicious flavor with nutritional value, making it a unique choice for special occasions while maintaining a balanced diet.