The aroma of freshly baked cake instantly brings joy to you, doesn't it? And when this cake reflects the colors of the vibrant national flag, it becomes one memorable addition to your Republic Day celebrations. A tricolor cake will symbolize unity, creativity, and love for the nation in any function or quiet time spent with the family and friends.
The best part is baking this cake is super-duper easy. A basic vanilla sponge, edible colors, and a dash of creativity can easily help you whip up a masterpiece that doesn't just taste heavenly but pays tribute to our tricolor. It would be truly a treat for the eyes as well to cut into the cake and find the beautiful saffron, white, and green layers peeking out. Let's dive into the recipe for this patriotic surprise.
Ingredients:
Method:
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C and greasing three 6-inch cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the yogurt and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate.
In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until smooth batter forms. Divide the batter evenly into three portions. Leave one portion plain, mix orange food color into the second portion and green food color into the third.
Pour each colored batter into its respective greased pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.
To assemble, layer the green cake at the bottom, spread a layer of whipped cream or buttercream frosting, then place the white cake, add another layer of frosting, and finally put the saffron cake. Frost the entire cake and decorate as desired.
Gel colors are highly concentrated, so a small amount goes a long way. Mix them into the batter gradually until the desired hue is achieved. This ensures vibrant colors without altering the consistency of the batter.
For saffron add a combination of turmeric and orange juice. To make green extract juice from fresh spinach or coriander leaves. These organic ones are gorgeous and provide a subtle flavor too.
Do not add separate layers, but swirl orange, white, and green batters in the same pan for marbled tricolor effect and make designs with a toothpick before baking.
Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the saffron batter for a citrusy aroma and flavor.
Mix cardamom powder into the white layer for a traditional Indian touch.
Replace regular milk with coconut milk for a subtle tropical flavor.
Fold in finely chopped pistachios into the green batter for added texture and a nutty crunch.
Use vanilla bean paste in place of vanilla extract for a more intense and aromatic flavor.
Dissolve saffron threads in warm milk and add it to the saffron dough for an even richer, more authentic color and flavor.
Drop a rose extract in the frosting for a floral and fragrant finish.
Wrap the baked cake layers tightly in plastic wrap to lock in moisture. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before assembling.
Place the assembled cake in an airtight container after frosting so it doesn't dry out. Refrigerate and consume within 2 days.
Place layers in freezer bags, wrap individually in cling film, and store in the freezer for more than a week. Assemble and decorate after leaving overnight in the refrigerator to thaw.