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Coconut Rhubarb Breakfast Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 88 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 9 squares
  • Category: Breakfast Cake
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This Coconut Rhubarb Breakfast Cake is a moist, flavorful treat combining the tartness of rhubarb with the tropical notes of coconut. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or brunch gathering, this cake is made with wholesome ingredients including coconut sugar, shredded coconut, and a blend of non-dairy milk and applesauce for a dairy-free option. Lightly sweetened and textured with fresh or frozen rhubarb, it’s a deliciously unique twist on traditional breakfast cakes.


Ingredients

Fruits

  • 2 cups diced rhubarb (fresh or frozen)

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or granulated sugar)
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (or any non-dairy milk)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Topping

  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, shredded coconut, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and flavor.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, unsweetened applesauce, coconut milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
  4. Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
  5. Add Rhubarb: Fold in the diced rhubarb gently, distributing it evenly throughout the batter.
  6. Transfer and Add Topping: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the optional chopped nuts or seeds on top if using.
  7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into 9 squares and serve.

Notes

  • You can use fresh or frozen rhubarb for this recipe; just be sure to dice it evenly.
  • Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake gluten-free.
  • Using coconut sugar adds a subtle caramel flavor but granulated sugar works as well.
  • The applesauce helps keep the cake moist and replaces eggs to make it vegan-friendly.
  • Feel free to add chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.