Category: Recipes

Pancho Cake Extravaganza Embark on a journey of irresistibility

Embark on a journey of irresistibility with the famous Pancho Cake – unrealistically delicious, quick, and easy, without a hint of gelatin! This delightful creation boasts layers of chocolate sponge, pineapples, prunes, walnuts, and cherries, all embraced by a luscious cream.

Chocolate Sponge Cake:

– 4 medium-sized eggs
– A pinch of salt
– 16g vanilla sugar
– 180g sugar
– 100ml milk (room temperature)
– 100g odorless vegetable oil
– 220g flour
– 40g cocoa
– 10g baking powder

Prepare Chocolate Sponge Cake:

– Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
– In a bowl, whisk eggs with salt, vanilla sugar, and sugar until light and fluffy.
– Add milk and vegetable oil, continuing to whisk.
– Sift in flour, cocoa, and baking powder. Fold until well combined.
– Pour the batter into a prepared baking dish and bake for about 35 minutes or until a wooden stick comes out clean.

Prepare Ingredients for Layering:

– Drain canned pineapples, reserving 50ml of pineapple juice for impregnation.
– Snack on prunes to soften them.
– Chop walnuts.
– Drain canned cherries.

Cream Preparation:

– In a bowl, whip chilled whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla sugar until stiff peaks form.
– In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone (or detached sour cream), cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth.
– Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.

Assembling the Pancho Cake:

– Cut the chocolate sponge into two layers.
– Sprinkle each layer with pineapple juice for impregnation.
– Spread a layer of cream, followed by pineapples, prunes, and walnuts. Repeat for the second layer, finishing with cherries on top.

Chill and Serve:

– Refrigerate the Pancho Cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.
– Slice and serve this heavenly creation to the delight of your taste buds!

Triple Crispy Puff Pastries

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• • Bread flour: 250g

• • Unsalted butter (room temperature): 50g (for the dough)
  • Salt: 3g (1 tsp)
  • Sugar: 10g (1 tbsp)

• Cold water: 120ml
• Unsalted butter (for spreading): 120g (softened but not melted)

For the Filling:

• Strawberry jam
• Chocolate jam

Before Baking:

• Egg wash: 2 tbsp eggs + 2 tbsp milk (for brushing the pastries before baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. 1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add 250g bread flour, 50g unsalted butter, 3g salt, and 10g sugar. Mix the ingredients together using your hands or a stand mixer.
   2. Add water: Gradually add 120ml of cold water to the flour mixture while stirring. Mix until the dough comes together and starts to form a smooth texture.

1. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You should be able to stretch it slightly without tearing.
2. Rest the dough: Wrap the kneaded dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and makes it easier to roll out later.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter for Laminating

1. 1. Flatten the butter: Take 120g of unsalted butter and place it between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to flatten the butter into a thin rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick.

1. Chill the butter: Place the flattened butter in the refrigerator to chill until it becomes firm but remains pliable. You want the butter to be cold enough to hold its shape, but soft enough to spread when rolled with the dough.

Step 3: Laminate the Dough

1. 1. Roll out the dough: After 30 minutes, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out into a large rectangle that’s twice the size of your prepared butter sheet.
   2. Place the butter: Remove the butter from the fridge and place it in the center of the rolled-out dough.

1. 1. Fold the dough: Fold the dough over the butter, completely encasing it. You should have a dough “packet” with the butter sealed inside.
   2. Roll and fold: Roll the dough into a larger rectangle, then fold it into thirds like a letter. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
   3. Repeat the process: Repeat the rolling and folding process two more times, chilling the dough for 30 minutes between each fold. This process creates the layers that give puff pastry its flaky texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Pastries

1. 1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
   2. Roll out the dough: After the final chill, roll out the laminated dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
   3. Cut the dough: Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to cut the dough into smaller rectangles or squares, depending on the size you want your pastries to be.

1. Add the filling: Place a small amount of strawberry jam and chocolate jam in the center of each piece of dough. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam will expand when baked.
2. Seal the pastries: Fold the dough over the filling to create a sealed packet. Use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure the filling stays inside during baking.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

1. 1. Prepare the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of eggs and 2 tablespoons of milk to create the egg wash.

1. Brush the pastries: Brush the tops of the assembled pastries with the egg wash. This will help them develop a beautiful golden-brown color in the oven.

Step 6: Bake the Pastries

1. 1. Bake: Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
   2. Cool slightly: Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Step 7: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve your triple crispy puff pastries warm, with a perfect balance of flaky layers and sweet filling. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but can be stored for later.

Cooking Tips

• • Temperature control: Keep the butter cold but pliable. If it gets too soft, the dough will absorb it, and you’ll lose the layers. If it’s too hard, it will break through the dough when rolling.
  • Filling variations: Feel free to experiment with different fillings like custard, Nutella, or fruit preserves. Just make sure not to overfill to avoid leakage.

• Brush with egg wash: For a beautifully shiny, golden crust, ensure you generously brush the egg wash over each pastry before baking.
• Chill the dough between folds: Chilling the dough between folds is essential for creating the flaky layers of the puff pastry.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate Values)

• • Calories: 250 kcal

• • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g

• • Sugar: 5g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g

• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 200mg

Homemade Cheese Block

Ingredients:

• • Milk: 1.6 liters (6 ¾ cups)

• • Corn starch: 100 g (¾ cup)
  • Agar agar: 16 g (4 teaspoons)
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon

• Butter: 30 g (2 tablespoons)
• Hard cheese (grated): 200 g (2 cups)

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare the mixture: In a large pot, combine milk, corn starch, agar agar, and salt. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.

1. 1. Cook: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Cook for 16-20 minutes until the mixture thickens.
   2. Add butter: Stir in the butter and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
   3. Add cheese: Gradually add grated hard cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Cook for an additional 7-10 minutes until fully combined.

1. Cool and set: Pour the mixture into a greased container or mold and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
2. Serve: Once set, slice the cheese block and serve as desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Slice and use in sandwiches or wraps.

• Grate and use over pasta or salads.
• Serve alongside crackers or fresh veggies as a snack.

Cooking Tips:

• • Use a whisk while stirring the milk mixture to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.

• You can substitute the hard cheese with your favorite variety, such as cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella.
• To give your cheese a flavorful twist, add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or a pinch of chili flakes.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Protein-packed: Cheese is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

• Rich in calcium: This recipe provides a good amount of calcium, which is important for healthy bones and teeth.
• No preservatives: Unlike store-bought cheese, this homemade version is free from artificial additives and preservatives.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian-friendly (if using vegetarian-friendly hard cheese)

• Gluten-free
• Contains dairy

Nutritional Facts (per 1 slice, approximately 30g):

• • Calories: 120 kcal

• • Protein: 6 g
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g

• Calcium: 150 mg
• Sodium: 250 mg

Storage Tips:

• • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

• Freezer: You can freeze the cheese block for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
• Tip: Slice or grate the cheese before freezing for easier use after thawing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. 1. Customizable: You can change the flavor by using different types of cheese or adding herbs and spices.

1. Healthier: Free from preservatives and artificial additives, making it a healthier option than store-bought cheese.
2. Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, this cheese block is quick to prepare and easy to make.
3. Perfect texture: Thanks to the agar agar, this cheese has a smooth, firm texture that’s perfect for slicing, grating, or melting.

 

Cottage Cheese Oat Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:

• • Cottage Cheese: 180 g

• • Eggs: 2 large
  • Salt: A pinch
  • Oats: 135 g (plus extra for sprinkling)

• • Baking Powder: 5 g (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Walnuts: 70 g, chopped
  • Vegetable Oil: For greasing hands

• Sesame Seeds: For sprinkling

Directions:

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 190 °C (375 °F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   2. In a coffee grinder, grind the oats until they reach a fine flour consistency.

1. 1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground oats, cottage cheese, eggs, a pinch of salt, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
   2. Chop the walnuts finely and fold them into the mixture.
   3. Grease your hands with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Take a portion of the dough and shape it into rolls or your desired form.

1. 1. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the tops with sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
   2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
   3. Allow the rolls to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve warm with butter or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast.
  • Enjoy with a dollop of yogurt and fresh fruit for a nutritious snack.
  • Pair with your favorite herbal tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

Cooking Tips:

• • For extra flavor, add herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
  • Experiment with different nuts, like almonds or pecans, if you prefer.
  • If you want a sweeter roll, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the mixture.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Cottage Cheese: High in protein and calcium, supporting muscle health and bone density.
  • Oats: A great source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol and improve digestion.
  • Walnuts: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats.
  • Nut-Free Option: Omit walnuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.

Nutritional Facts (per roll, based on 10 servings):

• • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 5g

• • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 1g

Storage:

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Oatmeal and Date Balls Recipe

Ingredients:

• • 150g (5 oz) dates
  • 80g (2.8 oz) rolled oats
  • 90g (3 oz) walnuts

• • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 pinch salt (optional)
  • Zest of 1 orange

• 100g (3.5 oz) sugar-free chocolate
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

• • Prepare the Dates:
    • Soak dates in water for 15 minutes, then remove pits.
  • Prepare the Oats:
    • • Grind rolled oats into a fine consistency.

     

  • Chop the Nuts:
    • Chop walnuts, saving some for decoration.

• • Mix Ingredients:
    • Blend dates into a paste and combine with ground oats, walnuts, cinnamon, salt, and orange zest.
  • Form Balls:
    • • Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

     

  • Prepare Chocolate Coating:
    • Melt chocolate with olive oil, dip balls into chocolate, and decorate with walnuts.

• Refrigerate Again:
  • Chill for another 15 minutes and serve in paper molds.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve chilled as a dessert or snack.

Cooking Tips:

• • Use a food processor for easier blending of ingredients.

• Experiment with additional flavorings like vanilla or nutmeg.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Dates: Provide natural sweetness, rich in fiber and antioxidants.

• Oats: A source of complex carbohydrates and fiber.
• Walnuts: High in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.

Dietary Information:

• Vegan: Free from animal products.
• No Added Sugar: Naturally sweetened with dates.

Nutritional Facts (per ball, based on 12 servings):

• • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g

• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes and perfect for a quick dessert or snack.

• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
• Naturally Sweet: No added sugar, sweetened only with dates.
• Vegan-Friendly: Ideal for those following a plant-based diet.

Spinach Cake Recipe

Ingredients:
For the Cake:

• • 1 handful fresh spinach
  • ⅓ cup milk (85 ml)
  • 4 large eggs

• • 1 ½ cups sugar (300 g)
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (240 g)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder (10 g)

For the Cream:

• • 2 packets whipped cream powder (150 g)
  • 1 cup cold milk (250 ml)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 g)
• 150 g (⅔ cup) mild cream cheese

Directions:

• • Prepare the Spinach Puree:
    • Wash and pat dry the spinach.
    • Blend spinach with ⅓ cup milk until smooth and bright green. Set aside.

• • Prepare the Cake Batter:
    • • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
      • In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
      • Mix the spinach puree into the egg mixture.

     

    • Sift together flour and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
  • Bake the Cake:
    • • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

     

    • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
    • Let cakes cool for 10 minutes in the pans, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

• • Prepare the Cream:
    • In a large bowl, beat the whipped cream powder, cold milk, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.
    • Add cream cheese and continue beating until smooth and creamy.

• • Assemble the Cake:
    • • Level the tops of the cakes if necessary.
      • Spread a layer of frosting on one cake layer, then place the second layer on top.
      • Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.

     

  • Chill and Serve:
    • Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
  • Pair with fresh berries or a drizzle of berry compote for a fruity contrast.

• Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or edible flowers for a decorative touch.

Cooking Tips:

• • Use a high-speed blender to puree the spinach for a smoother consistency.

• For even cake layers, weigh the batter as you divide it between the pans.
• Make sure the cake layers are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamin A, and vitamin K, providing a nutritional boost without affecting flavor.
  • Eggs: Offer high-quality protein, vitamins, and healthy fats.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds a source of calcium and protein.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
  • Nut-Free: Does not contain nuts, safe for those with nut allergies.

• Lower Sugar: This recipe uses natural ingredients to lower the overall sugar content.

Nutritional Facts (per slice):

• • Calories: 220-250

• • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 12g

• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

Storage:

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• You can freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 1 month; thaw before frosting.

Sweet Potato Cakes Recipe

Ingredients:

• • 400g sweet potatoes
  • 100g glutinous rice flour

• • 20g sugar
  • 120 ml milk
  • Toasted sesame seeds, for topping

• Cooking oil, for frying

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
      • • Peel and cut the 400g sweet potatoes into small pieces.
        • Place the sweet potatoes in a steamer and cook for about 20 minutes until they are soft.

       

   2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
      • • Once cooked, remove the sweet potatoes from the steamer and place them in a large bowl.
        • While still hot, use a tool like a dough roller or a potato masher to crush the sweet potatoes until smooth.

       

   3. Mix the Dough:
      • • Add 100g glutinous rice flour and 20g sugar to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir well to combine.
        • Gradually pour in 120 ml milk, mixing continuously to avoid making the mixture too pasty. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and soft.

       

   4. Shape the Dough:
      • • Roll the dough out on a floured surface and divide it into small portions.
        • Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it with your hands to form small cakes.

       

   5. Add Sesame Seeds:
      • Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of each cake and press them gently into the dough.

1. 1. Fry the Cakes:
      • Heat cooking oil in a pan over low heat until it reaches 140°C (284°F).
      • Fry the cakes for about 3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.

1. 1. Serve:
      • Once the cakes are golden and crispy on both sides, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
      • Serve warm and enjoy the soft, chewy texture and the sweet, fragrant flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the sweet potato cakes with a drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
• Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.

Cooking Tips:

• • Be sure to mash the sweet potatoes while they’re still hot for a smoother dough.

• If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the cakes instead of frying them at 180°C (356°F) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Sweet potatoes are a rich source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium.
  • Glutinous rice flour adds a chewy texture, making the cakes soft and flexible.

• Sesame seeds are packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Dietary Information:

• • Gluten-free: Made with glutinous rice flour, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
  • Vegetarian: Suitable for a vegetarian diet.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• • Calories: 150
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g

• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 3g

Storage:

• • Fridge: Store the cooked cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

• Freezer: You can freeze uncooked cakes and fry them when ready to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • Simple and Healthy: With minimal ingredients, this recipe is both easy and nutritious.
  • Delightfully Chewy: The combination of sweet potatoes and glutinous rice flour gives these cakes a wonderfully soft, chewy texture.

• Versatile: They can be fried or baked, depending on your preference.