Doolsho (Somali Cardamom Sponge Cake)
Doolsho is a beloved Somali sponge cake, known for its light and airy texture, infused with the warm, floral aroma of cardamom. Traditionally served during 'casariyo' (afternoon tea) and celebrations, it's a simple yet elegant dessert that pairs wonderfully with spiced tea or coffee.
🧂 Ingredients
- 7 separated (room temperature) Large eggs
- 1.5 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup Cornstarch
- 0.5 tsp Ground cardamom
- 0.25 tsp Vanilla extract
- 0.5 tsp Baking powder
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- 2 tbsp Butter(melted, for greasing and batter)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the egg yolks, half of the granulated sugar (3/4 cup), cardamom, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is light, creamy, and pale yellow.
- 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Sift this dry mixture twice to ensure it's well aerated.
- 4
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining granulated sugar (3/4 cup) while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- 5
Gently fold about one-third of the beaten egg whites into the egg yolk mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold the remaining egg whites into the yolk mixture until just combined, being careful not to deflate the batter.
- 6
Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the egg white mixture in two additions, until just combined. Finally, gently fold in the melted butter.
- 7
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 8
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure eggs are at room temperature for optimal whipping.
- ✓Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients, as this can result in a tough cake.
- ✓Sifting the dry ingredients helps create a lighter, airier cake.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dry ingredients for added warmth.
- For a lemon-infused doolsho, add the zest of one lemon to the egg yolk mixture.