Prepare to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Colombia with this irresistible Ponque Pound Cake that will make your kitchen smell like a tropical bakery! This isn't just another cake – it's a culinary journey that promises to deliver rich, buttery perfection in every single bite. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this traditional Colombian dessert will become your new obsession, guaranteed to impress family and friends with its moist, tender crumb and incredible flavor.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Colombian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch bundt pan or traditional pound cake pan, ensuring all surfaces are evenly coated to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will help remove any lumps and ensure a smooth, even cake texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale yellow in color.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to maintain a smooth batter consistency.
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix to prevent a dense cake.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing gently to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean with just a few crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This allows the cake to set and makes removal easier.
- Carefully invert the cake onto a wire cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing. The cake can be served at room temperature and pairs wonderfully with Colombian coffee.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and milk, are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother, more consistent batter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Check the expiration dates on your baking powder and vanilla extract to ensure maximum flavor and rising potential.
- Pan Preparation is Key: Thoroughly grease and flour your pan to prevent sticking. Consider using a pastry brush for even coating.
- Oven Temperature Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is precisely at 350°F for even baking.
- Cooling Technique: Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes before removing, which helps it maintain its shape.
- Storage Tip: Wrap the completely cooled cake in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness for up to 3-4 days at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 145mg
