Portuguese Coffee Cake

Portuguese Coffee Cake Recipe - Traditional and Flavorful

Region / culture: Portugal | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 9

Introduction

Portuguese Coffee Cake is a delicious and moist cake that is perfect for breakfast or as a dessert. This recipe combines the flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and walnuts to create a sweet and nutty treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee.

History

Portuguese Coffee Cake has its origins in Portugal, where it is a popular dessert served with coffee. The recipe has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time to include different variations and ingredients.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of corn-oil margarine
0.5 cup of sugar
0.5 cup of liquid egg substitute
1 cup of light sour cream
1 tsp of baking soda
1 tsp of vanilla
1.5 cups of flour
1.5 tsp of baking powder
0.5 cup of walnuts
0.25 cup of sugar
2 tsp of cinnamon

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Cream together margarine and 0.5 cup of sugar until fluffy. Then, add the egg.
In a separate bowl, mix sour cream and baking soda. Add this mixture to the first mix. Stir in vanilla, flour, and baking powder.
Combine walnuts, 0.25 cup of sugar, and cinnamon.
Stir half of the nut mixture into the batter. Pour the batter into a 9" square baking pan.
Sprinkle the remaining nut mixture on top of the batter.

Variations

Add raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts for a different flavor profile.
Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the top of the cake for added sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cream the margarine and sugar together until fluffy to ensure a light and airy texture in the cake.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.

- Use a toothpick to check for doneness - if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Portuguese Coffee Cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or as a snack.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming: Creaming the margarine and sugar together creates a light and fluffy texture in the cake.

- Folding: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to avoid overmixing and ensure a tender crumb.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be used in place of margarine.

- Regular eggs can be used instead of liquid egg substitute.

- Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream.

Make Ahead Tips

Portuguese Coffee Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Portuguese Coffee Cake on a decorative platter or cake stand for a beautiful presentation. Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Portuguese Coffee Cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a classic combination. It also pairs well with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream for a sweet treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Portuguese Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

210

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 28g

- Dietary Fiber: 1g

- Sugars: 15g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 3g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin D: 0%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 6%

- Potassium: 2%

Alergens

Contains: Walnuts, Eggs, Dairy

Summary

Portuguese Coffee Cake is a moderate source of carbohydrates and fats, with a small amount of protein. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, making it a tasty and nutritious treat.

Summary

Portuguese Coffee Cake is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and nutty flavor, it is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee for a delightful treat!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Portuguese Coffee Cake. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as she busily gathered the ingredients for this traditional cake.

Maria was a wonderful cook, and I had always admired her skills in the kitchen. She had learned to make this cake from her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. As she mixed the flour, sugar, and eggs together, she explained to me the importance of using high-quality ingredients and taking time to appreciate the process of baking.

I watched in awe as she skillfully poured the batter into a round cake pan and placed it in the oven to bake. The sweet scent of cinnamon and vanilla wafted through the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As we waited for the cake to bake, Maria shared with me the story of how she had learned to make this special recipe. She told me that her grandmother had taught her when she was just a young girl, and that she had cherished the memories of baking together in their small village in Portugal.

I could see the love and pride in Maria's eyes as she spoke about her grandmother and the tradition of making this cake. I felt honored to be a part of this special moment, learning from her and carrying on the legacy of this cherished recipe.

When the cake was finally done baking, Maria carefully removed it from the oven and placed it on the counter to cool. The golden crust glistened in the sunlight, and I could hardly wait to taste a slice of this delicious treat.

As we sat down at the table with steaming cups of coffee, Maria sliced the cake and served us each a generous portion. The cake was moist and tender, with a delicate crumb and a hint of sweetness that was perfectly balanced by the cinnamon and vanilla flavors.

I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from Maria and experience the joy of baking this traditional Portuguese Coffee Cake. The memories of that day have stayed with me ever since, inspiring me to continue cooking and sharing recipes with others.

Now, whenever I bake this special cake for my family and friends, I remember Maria's words of wisdom and the love that she poured into every step of the process. I am grateful for her guidance and the opportunity to carry on the tradition of this beloved recipe.

As I sit at my own kitchen table, surrounded by the comforting aroma of cinnamon and vanilla, I can't help but smile as I think back to that summer day with Maria. The joy of baking and sharing delicious food with loved ones is a gift that I will always cherish, thanks to the lessons I learned from my dear friend and her treasured recipe for Portuguese Coffee Cake.