Pan de Pascua Recipe: A Festive Delight
Discover the delightful charm of Pan de Pascua, a traditional Latin American cake often enjoyed during festive seasons, especially Christmas. This moist and flavorful cake is a symphony of textures and tastes, featuring a rich blend of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, all enveloped in a soft, fluffy batter. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this cake is as delicious as it is beautiful. Here’s how to create this wonderful treat.
Ingredients
To prepare this luscious Pan de Pascua, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Cream of tartar (optional, available at baking stores) | ½ teaspoon |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Pisco or rum | 3 tablespoons |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground cloves | ½ teaspoon |
| Raisins | ½ cup |
| Chopped walnuts | ½ cup |
| Candied fruit (mixed) | ½ cup |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious Pan de Pascua that your loved ones will adore:
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Prepare the Egg Whites: Begin by lightly beating the egg whites in a clean bowl until soft peaks form. Once done, set them aside to retain their volume.
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In another mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture until it is creamy and well combined. Then, gradually add the egg yolks, mixing until fully integrated. Finally, fold in the beaten egg whites gently, ensuring not to deflate them.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cream of tartar (if using). Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the milk and pisco or rum. Mix well after each addition to achieve a smooth batter.
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Add Spices: Incorporate the ground cinnamon and ground cloves into the batter, stirring until fully combined.
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Fold in Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the floured dried fruits, which include raisins, chopped walnuts, and candied fruit. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the cake, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
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Prepare the Baking Pan: Pour the batter into a loaf pan or, for a unique presentation, use a paper mold designed for panettone. Make sure to fill the mold about two-thirds full to allow for rising.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the cake for approximately one hour. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
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Check for Doneness: To ensure the cake is fully cooked, insert a skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your Pan de Pascua is ready. If not, bake for a few additional minutes, checking periodically.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 55 mg |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 15 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Serving Suggestions
Allow the Pan de Pascua to cool completely before slicing. Serve it plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a festive touch. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of warm spiced cider, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or cozy family get-togethers.
Conclusion
Enjoy the warmth and joy that comes with making and sharing Pan de Pascua. This delightful cake not only fills your home with an irresistible aroma but also brings together loved ones to savor a piece of tradition. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a simple afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Happy baking!
