Danish Dream Cake Recipe (with and without Chocolate)

The Dream Cake is a traditional Scandinavian dessert that has captivated our family with its texture and flavor. Made with a vanilla sponge delicious cake base and topped with caramelized coconut flakes, this sweet treat is a heavenly combination of butter, brown sugar, and coconut. By indulging in this dessert, you’ll experience a taste of Denmark’s rich culinary heritage and satisfy your sweet tooth with a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Danish dream cake recipe chocolate dream cake recipe

sponge cake with white cream on top sprinkled with cocoa powder, on a white plate

Dream cake boasts two main variations: the classic Danish Dream Cake and the indulgent Chocolate Dream Cake, each offering a unique flavor experience. I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of baking both versions, ensuring you can enjoy these delectable treats right in your own kitchen.

Origin and History of Dream Cake

Danish Dream Cake, also known as Drømmekage fra Brovst in Danish, has a fascinating history that dates back several decades. The cake’s origins can be traced to the 1960s, where it quickly became a beloved dessert in Danish households. It’s kind of amazing that it reached in only 60 years international level recognition and was linked to the country it’s coming from – more as a proof of the amazing taste it brings to the table (pun intended).

Legend has it that Danish Dream Cake was created by a Danish housewife, Jytte Andersen, who was experimenting in her kitchen. She wanted to create a cake that was easy to make yet incredibly delicious for a baking competition. After several trials and errors, she developed the perfect recipe that would eventually become Danish Dream Cake.

The cake gained popularity throughout Denmark and became a staple at family gatherings, birthdays, and other special occasions. Over time, word of this delectable treat spread beyond Danish borders, captivating the hearts (and taste buds) of people around the world.

Danish Dream Cake

Recipe Card

Danish Dream Cake

This recipe delights with its delicate balance of caramelized coconut topping and moist vanilla sponge and it's perfect as a tasty dessert or as an energy boost in the morning with the coffee.

Ingredients

200g all-purpose flour
200g granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 2 teaspoons of vanilla sugar
120ml whole milk
2 large eggs
100g unsalted butter, melted
100g desiccated coconut
200g brown sugar
120ml heavy cream

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, vanilla extract, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. I recommend using a springform pan as it will be easier to take the whole thing out of the pan and cut it.
Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the topping. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, desiccated coconut, and heavy cream. Stir continuously with until the mixture thickens and caramelizes slightly. If you use a hand mixer, set it on medium speed.
Poke cake to ensure it's baked. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and spread the coconut caramel evenly over the cake.
Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown.
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Baking the Perfect Dessert

Baking the perfect Danish Dream Cake requires attention to detail and a few handy tips and tricks. Here are some suggestions to ensure your cake turns out just right:

Use room temperature ingredients: When preparing the cake batter, make sure all the ingredients, such as eggs and milk, are at room temperature. This allows for better mixing and ensures the cake bakes evenly.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mix the cake batter until all the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough cake.
Test for doneness: To check if the cake is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs clinging to it, the cake is ready. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, bake the cake for a few more minutes.
Caramelize the coconut topping: When preparing the topping, be sure to stir continuously to prevent burning. The caramelization process adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the cake.
Serve the cake cool: this cake is best served at room temperature. After removing it from the oven, let it cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to develop and the topping to set.

Variations and Adaptations of Danish Dream Cake

While this cake is already a delightful treat on its own, there are several variations and adaptations that you can explore to add your own personal touch. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Fruit-infused: Add a burst of freshness to your Danish Dream Cake by incorporating your favorite fruits. Try topping the cake with sliced strawberries, raspberries, or even a layer of tangy lemon curd before adding the coconut topping.
Nutty: For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the coconut topping. The combination of textures will take your cake to new heights.
Chocolate: If you’re a chocolate lover, why not infuse your cake with a hint of cocoa? Add a few tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the cake batter for a rich chocolatey twist. You can also sprinkle some chocolate shavings over the coconut topping for extra indulgence.
Gluten-free: For those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions, fear not! You can still enjoy the flavors of Danish Dream Cake by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments for Danish Dream Cake

Danish Dream Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various accompaniments to enhance the overall experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your Danish Dream Cake even more delightful:

From above of delicious latte coffee in ceramic mug and slice of cheese cake on plate served on tray and bunch of field flowers on table

Whipped cream: Serve a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream alongside each slice of cake. The light and airy texture of the cream complements the rich flavors of the cake perfectly.
Fresh berries: Garnish your cake with a handful of fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The natural sweetness and vibrant colors of the berries add a refreshing touch to the dessert.
Vanilla ice cream: For an indulgent treat, serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a warm slice of Danish Dream Cake. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Caramel sauce: Drizzle some silky caramel sauce over the cake and let it cascade down the sides. The sweet and sticky caramel adds an extra layer of decadence to the dessert.
Coffee or tea: Pair your cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant cup of tea. The warm beverage helps balance the sweetness of the cake and makes for a cozy and satisfying experience.

Health Benefits of Danish Dream Cake

While Danish Dream Cake is undoubtedly a sweet indulgence, it’s worth noting that it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. So, even if it’s a rich cake, it’s ingredients are healthy:

coconut topping in a pan, near a cream bowl on a wooden white table

Coconut: The caramelized coconut topping of Danish Dream Cake contains healthy fats known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are easily digested and metabolized, providing a quick source of energy for the body. Coconut also contains fiber, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to overall health.
Eggs: Danish Dream Cake is made with eggs, which are a good source of protein and essential nutrients. Eggs contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein. They also provide vitamins A, D, E, and B12, as well as minerals like iron and selenium.
Milk: The milk used in Danish Dream Cake is a source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Milk also contains protein, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health and well-being.

It’s important to remember that indulging in all cakes should be done in moderation, as it is still a dessert high in sugar and calories. However, by being mindful of portion sizes and incorporating it into a balanced diet, you can enjoy this Scandinavian delight without guilt.

Where to Find Danish Dream Cake and Recommended Bakeries

If you’re not up for baking your own Danish Dream Cake or simply want to indulge in the expertise of professional bakers, there are several places where you can find this Scandinavian delight. Here are a few recommended bakeries that offer delicious Danish Dream Cake:

The Danish Bakery – Located in the heart of Copenhagen, The Danish Bakery is a charming establishment known for its traditional Danish pastries and cakes. Their Danish Dream Cake is a customer favorite, featuring a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Nordic Treats – This online bakery specializes in Scandinavian desserts, including Danish Dream Cake. Nordic Treats delivers their delectable creations straight to your doorstep, ensuring that you can satisfy your cravings no matter where you are.
The Scandinavian Kitchen – Situated in London, The Scandinavian Kitchen is a cozy cafe that offers a wide range of Scandinavian delights. Their Danish Dream Cake is hailed as one of the best in the city, attracting locals and tourists alike.

These are just a few examples of bakeries that excel in creating Danish Dream Cake. If you’re fortunate enough to visit Denmark or any Scandinavian country, be sure to explore local bakeries and cafes for an authentic taste of this Scandinavian sensation.