Pumpkin cake with 7 tricks

How are friends of this beautiful recipe community? From Paulina Cocina today we want to invite you to prepare a marvel of Venezuelan pastry: the Torta de Auyama.

Surely many of you are wondering what squash is, and we tell you that in many regions It is also known as pumpkin, so maybe it sounds more familiar to you. This delight with a unique flavor and spongy texture is very easy to prepare, and promises to save any snack or special occasion that calls for something sweet and delicious.

Let’s tell them well What is this cake about, what is its origin, where is it popular, what are the best occasions to enjoy it?, and seven infallible tricks to prepare it. When you close the page you will find a homemade pumpkin cake recipe to enjoy with adults and children.

About the pumpkin cake

The pumpkin cake is a creation of Venezuelan originwhat fuses the sweetness of pumpkin, also known as pumpkin or pumpkin in other regions, with the basic ingredients of a conventional cake.

Pumpkin, a vegetable with orange pulp and a slightly sweet flavornot only adds a distinctive touch to the recipe, but also provides the creamy texture that makes each bite of the cake a pleasurable experience.

The Venezuelan pumpkin cake is a delicacy that has become a true jewel of that country’s pastries. This delicious dessert, appreciated for its authentic flavor and spongy texturehas earned a prominent place on the tables of celebrations and special occasions.

Characteristics of pumpkin cake

• Unmatched fluffiness: This cake stands out for its spongy and soft texture.
• Authentic flavor: The flavor of pumpkin is masterfully fused with the other ingredients, creating a unique experience.
• Presentation versatility: Whether layered with cream or decorated with fruits, this Venezuelan cake lends itself to various presentations that make it visually attractive.
• Intense aroma: From the moment it begins to bake, the perfume of the pumpkin cake invades the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere.

What is pumpkin?

The pumpkin, also known as pumpkin or squash in other places, is the undisputed star of this exquisite cake. It is a vegetable with intense orange and sweet pulp.

In addition to pumpkin cake or pie, it can be used in many savory recipes, such as pumpkin cream, or pumpkin gnocchi; and sweets, such as pumpkin fritters or pumpkin pudding.

What other name is pumpkin known by?

The term “auyama” is commonly used in Venezuela and some other places in Latin America. However, in other regions it is known by different names, such as “pumpkin” in Spain and some countries Latin America; “squash” in various places in South America, and “ayote” in Central American countries.

There are different varieties of pumpkin, some with thicker and rougher skin, while others have a smoother shell. The differences in flavor and texture allow it to be used in a wide range of recipes.

In short, pumpkin is a versatile and nutritious culinary ingredient that has gained popularity in the cuisines of many cultures. Its presence in pumpkin cake not only provides a distinctive flavor, but also gives it a texture of intense color and a deep flavor.

Origin of pumpkin cake

The history of pumpkin pie dates back to past generations in Venezuela, but it is also traditional in other countries such as the United States, where the classic “pumpkin pie” is often enjoyed at celebrations such as Halloween or even Thanksgiving.

The Venezuelan pumpkin cake is also usually made in a format more similar to a flan or cheese, so, depending on the format, it can be adapted to different celebrations and special occasions such as birthdays, weddings and family reunions.

How to make a homemade pumpkin cake

Preparing a homemade pumpkin cake is quite simple, and does not require advanced culinary skills. The fluffy version is almost like any cake or pudding, so with accessible ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create this masterpiece of Venezuelan baking.

The important thing is to cook the pumpkin well, trying not to leave it with too much liquid. It is then mixed with eggs, sugar, flour, butter or oil, and baked for about 40 minutes. Let it cool and can be enjoyed alone or with a spoonful of whipped cream, for a more complete dessert.

The best occasions to enjoy pumpkin cake

The versatility of homemade pumpkin cake makes it a perfect accompaniment for a wide range of special occasions.

• birthday celebrations: With its versatile decoration, it is a popular choice for celebrating birthdays in Venezuela.

• Family events and gatherings: Whether at a Sunday family meal or a more formal gathering, Venezuelan pumpkin cake is a dessert that brings people together. Its comforting flavor and history rooted in tradition make it a welcome addition to any table.

• Weddings and anniversaries: The elegance of pumpkin cake, especially in multi-layer presentations (alternating with cream cheese or whipped cream) makes it perfect for this type of celebrations.

• Snacks and informal meetings: A good way to enjoy a slice of this cake is in the afternoon, accompanied with a cup of coffee or tea. It is the ideal choice for informal meetings and snacks with friends.

7 Tricks for a perfect pumpkin cake

1. Choosing the pumpkin: Opt for a ripe, good quality pumpkin. The pulp should be firm and a deep orange color. Avoid fibrous parts and excess seeds.
2. Uniform grinding: It is important to crush the pumpkin evenly to achieve a smooth texture and avoid lumps in the dough. You can use a food processor or puree masher.
3. sugar adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar according to personal tastes, taking into account that pumpkin provides natural sweetness, so it is advisable to test the mixture before baking.
4. Add dried fruits: You can add texture and flavor to the cake by adding raisins, walnuts or almonds.
5. Baking time control: A Auyama cake Perfect is one in which the inserted toothpick comes out clean, indicating that it is completely cooked, but retaining its characteristic moisture.
6. Aromas extra: A touch of vanilla essence and cinnamon add aroma and flavor to the cake, perfuming every corner of the house during baking. You can also play with some essence, such as orange blossom water or use citrus zest to contrast the sweetness.
7. Adequate cooling: Let the cake cool completely before unmolding it. This ensures that it maintains its shape and texture.

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Venezuelan pumpkin cake recipe

Yield: 10 servings

Preparation: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 2 cups of cooked and processed auyama (pumpkin)
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 cup of wheat flour
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

How to make homemade pumpkin pie step by step

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Meanwhile, in a bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.
2. Add the processed pumpkin and mix well, it can be done with an electric mixer.
3. Add the sifted flour, cinnamon, baking powder and a pinch of salt. Mix until you obtain a smooth dough.
4. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla essence. To integrate
5. Pour the mixture into a previously buttered and floured mold.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before unmolding.