Marquesote Salvadoreño (Salvadoran sponge cake)
If you’ve ever explored the culinary scene of El Salvador, you might have come across a delightful and fluffy treat known as marquesote. This traditional cake is not just a dessert; it’s a piece of Salvadoran sweet bread often enjoyed con cafecito or artesenal hot chocolate. Let’s dive into the sweet world of marquesote and discover what makes it so special.
What is Marquesote?
Marquesote is a light, sponge-like cake that has a unique texture and flavor profile. Its base is made from simple ingredients: eggs, sugar, and flour. However, the magic happens during the baking process, where the eggs are whipped until fluffy, creating that airy, cloud-like consistency. The cake is often flavored with vanilla and a hint of cinnamon. I often like to make tres leches cake with marquesote.
How to Make Marquesote
While there are many variations, here’s a simple recipe to get you started on making your own marquesote at home:
Ingredients:
6 large eggs
3/4 - 1 cup sugar: depends on how sweet you like your bread
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 tbsp of ground cinnamon
Butter or non stick baking spray for the baking pan
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan. If you want a thinner version use a 9X13 inch pan, if you want a taller cake use a 8X10 inch pan.
Separate the eggs, placing the egg whites in the mixing bowl and the yolks in another.
Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add half the sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
Add the yolks one by one and the remaining sugar to the beaten egg whites. Beat on medium without deflating.
Add the rest of the ingredients to the mixuture: vanilla extract, the other half of the sugar, sifted flour, ground cinnamon and baking powder
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool before serving
Enjoying Marquesote
Once your marquesote is ready, it’s time to indulge! Serve it with a side of coffee or artesenal hot chocolate or enjoy it as a standalone treat. It’s also a fantastic dessert to share with family!
