Canal Cake

Canal Cake Recipe | A Delicious Panamanian Dessert

Region / culture: Panama | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Canal Cake is a delicious and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any special occasion or gathering. This layered cake is made with a combination of rich ingredients such as cream cheese, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream, creating a decadent treat that is sure to impress your guests.

History

The origins of Canal Cake are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States. This dessert has become a popular choice for celebrations and parties due to its rich and creamy texture, making it a favorite among dessert lovers.

Ingredients

1 cup of all-purpose flour
0.5 cup of melted butter
0.5 cup of chopped nuts
16 oz (454 g) of whipped cream topping
1 cup of powdered sugar
8 oz (227 g) of cream cheese
3 cups of milk
2 packets of chocolate pudding
1 tsp of vanilla pudding

How to prepare

Combine flour, butter, and nuts in a mixing bowl, then transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
Bake the mixture in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
Allow the baked mixture to cool.
In a separate bowl, mix half of the whipped cream with powdered sugar and cream cheese until well combined. Spread this mixture over the cooled cake.
Next, mix 1.5 cups of cold milk with chocolate pudding and spread it evenly over the first layer.
In another bowl, mix the vanilla pudding with the remaining milk and spread it on top of the other two layers.
Cover the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream and sprinkle nuts on top for garnish.

Variations

For a lighter version of Canal Cake, you can use low-fat cream cheese and whipped cream topping.
You can also add layers of fresh fruit such as strawberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to allow the baked mixture to cool completely before adding the layers of cream and pudding to prevent them from melting.

- For a more decadent flavor, you can add a layer of caramel or fudge sauce between the layers of cream and pudding.

- To enhance the nutty flavor of the cake, toast the chopped nuts before sprinkling them on top as a garnish.

Serving Suggestions

Canal Cake is best served chilled, making it a refreshing dessert on a hot day. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a perfect Canal Cake is to layer the ingredients evenly and allow each layer to set before adding the next one. This will ensure that the cake holds its shape and has a beautiful presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are allergic to nuts, you can omit them from the recipe or substitute them with toasted coconut flakes for a similar crunch.

Make Ahead Tips

Canal Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This makes it a convenient dessert option for parties and gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

To make your Canal Cake even more visually appealing, you can garnish it with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or edible flowers.

Pairing Recommendations

Canal Cake pairs well with a glass of dessert wine such as Moscato or a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Canal Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Canal Cake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Canal Cake contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Canal Cake contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Canal Cake contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Canal Cake is not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Canal Cake contains dairy (cream cheese, whipped cream) and nuts. It may also contain gluten from the all-purpose flour.

Summary

Canal Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It is best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.

Summary

Canal Cake is a decadent and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. With its layers of cream cheese, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream, this dessert is sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy this rich and creamy treat in moderation for a delightful sweet ending to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Canal Cake. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Millie in the quaint town of Canal Side. Millie was known far and wide for her delicious cakes, and I had begged her to share one of her coveted recipes with me.

As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and catching up on old times, Millie suddenly reached into a drawer and pulled out a faded, yellowed piece of paper. "This," she said with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, "is the secret to my famous Canal Cake."

I eagerly peered over her shoulder as she read out the ingredients and instructions. The recipe called for a rich chocolate cake base, topped with a luscious caramel sauce and a sprinkle of toasted pecans. It sounded absolutely divine, and I knew I had to learn how to make it.

Millie graciously agreed to teach me her special recipe, and over the next few hours, we worked side by side in her kitchen, mixing, baking, and chatting away. As the cake baked in the oven, the sweet aroma filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the cake was finally ready, Millie pulled it out of the oven and placed it on the counter to cool. The caramel sauce glistened invitingly, and I could hardly wait to take a bite. But Millie insisted we let it set for a bit before indulging.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, Millie regaled me with stories of how she had come across the recipe for Canal Cake. She explained that it was a family heirloom, passed down from generation to generation, and that each baker added their own unique twist to it.

I listened intently as Millie shared the history behind the recipe, soaking in every detail like a sponge. I could tell that this cake held a special place in her heart, and I felt honored that she had chosen to share it with me.

After that day, I made Canal Cake countless times, perfecting the recipe and making it my own. I added a hint of cinnamon to the caramel sauce, which gave it a warm, spicy kick that complemented the chocolate base beautifully. I also experimented with different types of nuts, from almonds to walnuts, to create new and exciting flavor combinations.

Every time I baked a Canal Cake, it brought back memories of that sunny afternoon in Millie's kitchen, and I felt a deep connection to her and her family history. The cake became a staple at family gatherings and special occasions, loved by all who tried it.

Years passed, and I continued to bake Canal Cake, passing the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren. Each time I made it, I felt a sense of pride and nostalgia, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been cherished for generations.

And so, the recipe for Canal Cake became more than just a delicious dessert – it became a symbol of friendship, legacy, and the joy of sharing something special with the ones we love. And for that, I will always be grateful to Millie for introducing me to this unforgettable treat.