How to Make Traditional Mexican Pan de Elote
Pan de Elote, a delicious Mexican corn cake, is cherished for its sweet, moist texture and rich flavor. This traditional dessert captures the essence of Mexican cuisine, making it a favorite at family gatherings and celebrations. If you're looking to make this delightful treat at home, follow this simple recipe to create your own Pan de Elote.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of fresh corn kernels (about 2-3 ears of corn)
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Begin by carefully cutting the kernels off the cobs of corn. You should have about 1 cup of fresh corn kernels. If fresh corn is not available, you can use canned or frozen corn (make sure to drain and thaw if frozen).
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender, combine the corn kernels, milk, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth. This mixture will form the base of your Pan de Elote.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Add the blended corn mixture to the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the cake dense. Finally, add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or an 8x8 inch square baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Pan de Elote from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into squares or wedges and serve warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage Tips
Pan de Elote can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for about a week. To enjoy it later, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Making traditional Mexican Pan de Elote at home is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of Mexico right to your kitchen. With its sweet corn flavor and moist texture, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this captivating dish!