How to make Guyanese Salara /Red Cake Easy!

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: self-rising flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil enhances coconut flavor, while margarine is often less expensive.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey provides natural sweetness, while brown sugar is often less costly.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk is a dairy alternative, while water can be used to reduce costs.

Add 1/4 cup of water to a glass and mix in 1 packet of yeast and 1 teaspoon of white sugar. Whisk and set aside for 5-7 minutes until frothy.

Crack 3 eggs into a bowl and set aside.

Warm 3/4 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of water, then set aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Whisk together.

Add 1/3 cup of shortening to the flour mixture and cut it in using a pastry blender or your fingers.

Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture, then add the eggs and warm milk mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Spray a bowl with cooking spray or oil, place the dough in it, cover, and let it rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

While the dough is rising, prepare the coconut filling by adding 2 cups of grated coconut and 1/3 cup of sugar to a food processor. Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pulse until combined, adding 2 tablespoons of water if needed to moisten.

Transfer the coconut mixture to a bowl and add food coloring, mixing well.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and split it into two portions (they may not be equal).

Brush the top of the dough with melted butter.

Roll out the dough on a silicone mat to a rectangle shape, then spread the coconut mixture evenly over the surface.

Roll the dough tightly and pinch the ends to seal. Pinch and tuck the edges for a secure seal.

Place the rolled dough into a baking pan and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the dough for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Optionally, brush the top with egg wash or butter before baking.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens