Are you looking for a delightful treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides health benefits? Look no further than lolly cake! This delectable dessert, popular in New Zealand and beyond, is not only a tasty indulgence but also offers several health benefits.
What is Lolly Cake?
Lolly cake is a sweet treat that brings joy to both children and adults. Its distinct combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful snack for any occasion.
The crunchy texture of the crushed malt biscuits blends harmoniously with the softness of condensed milk and butter. The addition of colorful candy adds a burst of sweetness and a playful touch.
Nutritional Content of Lolly Cake
Before we delve into the health benefits of lolly cake, let’s take a look at its nutritional content. Lolly cake is a rich source of carbohydrates, providing the body with the energy it needs for daily activities.
It also contains fats from butter and condensed milk. While lolly cake is not considered a low-calorie food, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Health Benefits of Lolly Cake
1. Source of Energy
Lolly cake is a delightful way to replenish your energy levels. Packed with carbohydrates from the malt biscuits and condensed milk, it provides a quick and efficient source of energy.
Whether you need a pick-me-up during a busy day or an energy boost before a workout, lolly cake can provide that much-needed burst of vitality.
2. Rich in Calcium and Phosphorus
Calcium and phosphorus are essential minerals for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Lolly cake, thanks to the inclusion of condensed milk, is a good source of both these minerals.
Regular consumption of lolly cake can help support bone health and reduce the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis.
3. Provides Essential Nutrients
Lolly cake contains various essential nutrients from its ingredients. The malt biscuits contribute vitamins and minerals, while the condensed milk provides proteins and fats.
Additionally, the colorful candies add a touch of fun and joy to the treat. While lolly cake should be enjoyed in moderation, it can be a part of a well-rounded diet that includes other nutrient-dense foods.
4. Boosts Mood and Reduces Stress
Indulging in lolly cake can bring about a sense of happiness and contentment. The combination of flavors and textures in lolly cake can evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia. Treating yourself to a slice of lolly cake can be a simple yet effective way to lift your spirits and reduce stress.
5. Supports Digestive Health
The malt biscuits used in lolly cake contain dietary fiber, which plays a crucial role in supporting digestive health. Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome. Including lolly cake as an occasional treat can contribute to your overall fiber intake and aid in maintaining a healthy digestive system.
6. Enhances Cognitive Function
Certain ingredients in lolly cake, such as malt biscuits and condensed milk, contain nutrients that are beneficial for cognitive function.
For example, the malt biscuits provide B vitamins that are essential for brain health and function. Additionally, the fats from the condensed milk contribute to the brain’s structure and help support optimal cognitive performance.
7. Promotes Heart Health
While lolly cake should be enjoyed in moderation, it can have some heart-healthy benefits.
The inclusion of condensed milk in lolly cake provides a small amount of healthy fats. These fats, when consumed as part of a balanced diet, can contribute to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and supporting cardiovascular health.
8. Antioxidant Properties
Colorful candies used in lolly cake, such as Eskimo lollies or fruit puffs, contain antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect the body against oxidative stress, which can contribute to various chronic diseases.
While lolly cake is not a significant source of antioxidants, the inclusion of these colorful candies adds a touch of antioxidant power to this sweet treat.
9. Improves Bone Health
Lolly cake’s calcium and phosphorus content, primarily derived from condensed milk, can benefit bone health. Calcium and phosphorus work together to build and maintain strong bones and teeth. Including lolly cake as an occasional treat can contribute to your overall calcium and phosphorus intake, supporting optimal bone health.
10. Convenient and Versatile
One of the advantages of lolly cake is its convenience and versatility. It can be easily prepared with just a few ingredients and does not require baking.
Lolly cake is also highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. You can experiment with different types of crushed biscuits and candies to create your unique variations of this beloved treat.
How to Make Lolly Cake
Now that you’re aware of the health benefits of lolly cake, you may be curious about how to make it. Here’s a simple recipe to guide you:
Ingredients:
- 250 grams of malt biscuits, crushed
- 1 can (395 grams) of condensed milk
- 100 grams of butter, melted
- Colorful candies (Eskimo lollies or fruit puffs), chopped
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed malt biscuits, condensed milk, melted butter, and chopped colorful candies.
- Stir the mixture until well combined and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or baking paper.
- Shape the mixture into a log shape, using the plastic wrap or baking paper to help you roll and mold it.
- Wrap the log tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Once firm, remove the lolly cake log from the refrigerator and unwrap it.
- Slice the log into rounds of your desired thickness.
- Serve and enjoy!
FAQs
Yes, you can substitute condensed milk with alternatives like sweetened condensed coconut milk or a combination of milk and sugar. The taste and texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Yes, there are gluten-free biscuits available in the market that can be used as a substitute for malt biscuits. Look for gluten-free options made from ingredients like rice flour or almond flour.
It is best to store lolly cake in the refrigerator to maintain its shape and freshness. However, if the weather is cool and not too humid, you can keep it at room temperature for a short period.
Yes, lolly cake can be frozen for later consumption. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Absolutely! You can customize your lolly cake by adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the mixture. They will add extra flavor and texture to the dessert.
Conclusion
Lolly cake is not only a delightful treat but also offers several health benefits. From providing a source of energy to supporting bone health and enhancing cognitive function, this sweet indulgence can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Its versatility and convenience make it a popular choice for those seeking a quick and enjoyable dessert. Remember to enjoy lolly cake in moderation and as part of a well-rounded approach to nutrition.
