Mexican > Sweet Breads

Pan de Monja with Bananas and Walnuts Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Add the sour cream and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the mashed bananas and walnuts.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow to cool before serving.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: Can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Sour cream: Can be substituted with plain Greek yogurt.
- Bananas: Can be substituted with applesauce or mashed ripe pears.
- Walnuts: Can be substituted with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a chocolate version.
- Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity version.
- Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a cinnamon-spiced version.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming with the sugar.
- Be sure not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients have been added.
- To ensure the cake is cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center and make sure it comes out clean.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve on a cake stand with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.

Garnishes:
Whipped cream, chopped walnuts, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a fresh fruit salad or a green salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or sour cream to the batter.
- If the cake is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour to the batter.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using.
- Wash hands and all utensils before and after use.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Food History:
Pan de Monja is a traditional Mexican cake that is typically served during special occasions such as birthdays and holidays. It is a light and fluffy cake that is usually topped with a sweet glaze or frosting.

Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a light and fluffy texture with a hint of sweetness from the bananas and walnuts.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Creamy, Banana, Banana-Flavored