Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon saffron threads
- 225g butter
- 200g sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 300g plain flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 200ml coconut milk
For the Ganache
- 200 grams of dark or milk chocolate, finely chopped
- 120 milliliters of coconut milk
- Pinch of salt
Start by soaking the saffron threads in a small bowl with a little warm (not boiling) water or milk. This allows the saffron to slowly release its color and aroma. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes to fully develop its depth.
Preheat your oven to 180°C. Grease a bundt cake tin thoroughly to ensure the cake releases cleanly after baking.
In a large bowl, beat together 200 grams of softened unsalted butter and 250 grams of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Incorporate four eggs into the batter, one at a time, mixing well after each addition so the mixture stays smooth.
Stir in the saffron infusion, including the liquid. This will give the batter a warm golden color and distinctive aroma.
In a separate bowl, sift together 300 grams of plain flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Add these dry ingredients to the batter in stages, alternating with 200 milliliters of coconut milk. This method creates a smooth, rich texture.
Pour the finished batter into the greased bundt tin. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. Let the cake rest in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Ganache instructions:
Heat the coconut milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from the heat and pour it over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Stir in a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Once the cake has cooled, pour the ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides naturally. The dark chocolate brings a bold contrast to the soft, aromatic saffron cake and pairs beautifully with the coconut notes throughout.
Frequently asked questions
Moistness and tenderness in a bundt cake come from proper measuring, avoiding overmixing, and careful timing in the oven.
In addition to saffron bundt cake, consider trying other distinctive saffron-infused desserts like Lussekatter, the soft Swedish saffron buns, or a creamy, spiced rice pudding. For something more indulgent, saffron milk cake offers a rich, syrup-soaked experience, while saffron ice cream delivers a cool, aromatic twist. To elevate these desserts, serve them with a warm spiced tea or a splash of dark rum for a beautifully balanced finish.
To achieve the best results in baking, it’s important to choose high-quality saffron. When possible, opt for Hungarian saffron, which is known for its purity and strong aroma. Look for vibrant red threads with minimal yellow content, as this indicates a high concentration of flavour and pigment. Always store it in an airtight container away from light and moisture to preserve its quality.