The Portuguese milk cake, also known as "bolo de leite," is a delicious and traditional dessert that has been passed down through generations. This simple yet satisfying cake is a staple in many Portuguese households and is perfect for any occasion. The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to dessert for busy families. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of this delectable cake and provide you with a step-by-step guide to making it at home.
Main Ingredients: Cod Fillets, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Milk, Vidalia
This recipe takes the traditional flavors of Portuguese salt cod and incorporates it into a delicious stew that perfectly complements the beer can chicken. The saltiness of the cod balances out the richness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded and flavorful meal.
Portuguese egg tarts, or pastéis de nata, are a popular dessert in Portugal. But have you ever thought of incorporating them into a savory dish? This recipe uses the creamy custard filling as a glaze for the beer can chicken, adding a unique and delicious twist to the traditional dish.
3of 20
French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
Who said beer can chicken can only be eaten for dinner? This recipe turns the classic Portuguese bread, broa, into a delicious French toast that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the chicken. It's a great way to use up any leftover beer can chicken for a tasty breakfast or brunch.
If you can't get enough of the creamy, custardy filling of Portuguese egg tarts, then this recipe is for you. It uses the same filling as a glaze for the beer can chicken, infusing it with a sweet and savory flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
5of 20
Sericaia ‘Portuguese sweet’
Main Ingredients: Milk, Lemon, Sugar, All Purpose Flour, Eggs, Cinnamon
Sericaia, also known as Portuguese sweet, is a traditional dessert made with eggs, milk, and cinnamon. This recipe uses the same flavors to create a marinade for the beer can chicken, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.
6of 20
Portuguese Coconut ›Custard Tarts
Main Ingredients: Cornstarch, Milk, Sweetened Shredded Coconut, Large
This recipe combines two beloved Portuguese desserts – coconut custard tarts and beer can chicken. The coconut adds a tropical twist to the dish, making it perfect for a summer barbecue or a taste of the tropics in the colder months.
7of 20
Broa - The Portuguese Bread
Main Ingredients: Yellow Cornmeal, All Purpose Flour, Milk, Hot Water
Broa, a traditional Portuguese bread, is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. This recipe uses the bread as a stuffing for the beer can chicken, infusing it with the delicious flavors of cornmeal, honey, and orange zest. It's a unique and delicious way to enjoy beer can chicken.
8of 20
Kuejadas (Portuguese Tart)
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Margarine, Eggs, Flour, Condensed Milk, Milk
Kuejadas, also known as Portuguese tarts, are a popular dessert in Portugal. This recipe takes the classic flavors of these tarts and incorporates them into a marinade for the beer can chicken, resulting in a sweet and savory dish that will have your taste buds dancing.
If you love Portuguese custard tarts, then you'll love this recipe that uses the same flavors to create a glaze for the beer can chicken. The creamy custard balances out the richness of the chicken, creating a harmonious and delicious dish.
10of 20
Portuguese milk doughnuts
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Milk, All Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Baking
Who says beer can chicken can't be fun and playful? This recipe uses Portuguese milk doughnuts as a coating for the chicken, resulting in a crispy and flavorful dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
11of 20
Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
This recipe takes the classic flavors of Portuguese orange cake and incorporates them into a marinade for the beer can chicken. The orange adds a bright and refreshing twist to the dish, perfect for a summer barbecue or a taste of sunshine in the colder months.
Rice pudding is a classic comfort food, and this recipe takes it to the next level by using it as a stuffing for the beer can chicken. The creamy and comforting flavors of the rice pudding pair perfectly with the juicy and flavorful chicken.
13of 20
Portuguese Porridge (Papas)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Sugar, Flour, Salt, Ground Cinnamon, Egg Yolk
Papas, a traditional Portuguese porridge made with cornmeal, is a hearty and comforting dish. This recipe uses it as a glaze for the beer can chicken, adding a unique and delicious twist to the traditional dish.
This recipe takes the classic flavors of Portuguese sweet bread, also known as massa sovada, and incorporates them into a marinade for the beer can chicken. The bread adds a touch of sweetness and a soft texture to the chicken, making it a must-try dish.
These Portuguese tarts, also known as queijadas, are a beloved dessert in Portugal. This recipe uses them as a glaze for the beer can chicken, infusing it with a sweet and creamy flavor that will have you going back for seconds.
If you can't get enough of Portuguese custard tarts, then this recipe is for you. It uses the same flavors to create a marinade for the beer can chicken, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.
17of 20
Arroz Doce (Portuguese rice pudding)
Main Ingredients: Arborio Rice, Boiling Water, Lemon, Whole Milk, Sugar
Arroz doce, also known as Portuguese rice pudding, is a comforting and delicious dessert. This recipe takes the same flavors and incorporates them into a marinade for the beer can chicken, resulting in a unique and flavorful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
18of 20
Portuguese Sweet Rice Dessert
Main Ingredients: Milk, Rice, Sugar, Cinnamon Stick, Cinnamon, Lemon, Egg
This recipe combines two beloved Portuguese desserts – sweet rice pudding and beer can chicken. The rice pudding adds a creamy and comforting touch to the dish, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
These easy Portuguese rolls are a staple in Portuguese cuisine. This recipe uses them as a coating for the beer can chicken, resulting in a crispy and flavorful dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Sweet rolls, also known as pão doce, are a popular breakfast item in Portugal. This recipe uses them as a stuffing for the beer can chicken, infusing it with a touch of sweetness and a soft texture that will take your beer can chicken to the next level.
The History of Portuguese Milk Cake
The origins of Portuguese milk cake can be traced back to the 15th century when sugar was first introduced to Portugal from the colonies. The abundance of dairy in the country, particularly milk and eggs, led to the creation of various milk-based desserts, including this cake. Over time, this recipe has evolved and been perfected by each generation, resulting in the delicious cake we know and love today.
Ingredients and Preparation
The main ingredients in Portuguese milk cake are milk, eggs, flour, and sugar, which are staples in most households. Other common ingredients include vanilla extract for flavoring and baking powder for leavening. The preparation process is relatively simple, with all the ingredients mixed together and baked in a round cake tin.
Step-by-Step Guide
To make this delicious cake at home, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a round cake tin with butter.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat 4 eggs and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Slowly add 1 ⅔ cups of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg mixture, stirring continuously.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of flour and 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
Step 5: Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, stirring until well combined.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Variations
While the classic Portuguese milk cake is delicious on its own, there are several variations that you can try to add a unique twist to this traditional dessert. You can add cinnamon or lemon zest to the batter for a different flavor profile. Some people also like to add a layer of caramel on top of the cake before baking, giving it a sweet and sticky topping.
In conclusion, the Portuguese milk cake is a simple yet delightful dessert that has stood the test of time. Its rich history and easy preparation make it a beloved dish in many Portuguese households. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the taste of Portugal in your own home?