When life feels a little too fast-paced, there’s nothing like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cake to bring back a sense of calm. Just the thought of this Simple Cortadillo (Mexican Pink Cake) brings a smile to my face, turning any ordinary day into a celebration. After a hectic afternoon filled with deadlines, I found solace in an old family recipe that I couldn’t resist sharing with you.
This delightful cake, drenched in a sweet pink icing and complemented by a hint of almond essence, is perfect for both special occasions and casual get-togethers. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it the ideal choice for those of us craving homemade goodness without lengthy preparation. A sprinkle of colorful toppings adds that festive touch, proving that baking can be as easy as it is enjoyable. Join me in making this vibrant dessert that’s bound to impress friends and family alike and may just become the star of your gatherings!
Why is this Simple Cortadillo cake a must-try?
Ease of Preparation: This Simple Cortadillo recipe is beginner-friendly, requiring minimal baking experience for that perfect outcome.
Deliciously Sweet: The combination of rich vanilla and almond flavors creates a delightful sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
Vibrant and Festive: Dressed in a beautiful pink icing, this cake adds a cheerful touch to any event, making it a crowd favorite.
Versatile Delight: Whether for birthdays, gatherings, or just a weekend treat, this cake seamlessly fits into any occasion.
Quick Bake Time: With a cook time of just 25-30 minutes, you can enjoy homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.
Take a moment to explore other delightful recipes like this one, and discover how easy it is to bring joy to your table!
Simple Cortadillo Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – A basic ingredient that gives structure to your Simple Cortadillo cake.
• Baking powder – Ensures your cake rises beautifully for a light texture.
• Fine salt – A little balance for the sweetness enhances overall flavor.
• Unsalted butter – At room temperature, this creates a rich and creamy batter.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the flavors of vanilla and almond.
• Large eggs – Room temperature eggs promote better mixing and cake rise.
• Whole milk – For moisture and a tender crumb in your cake.
• Vanilla extract – This adds a warm, comforting flavor that everyone loves.
• Almond extract (optional) – A hint of almond brings a lovely depth to the cake’s taste.
For the Icing
• Powdered sugar – The base for a sweet, smooth icing that coats the cake beautifully.
• Milk or cream – Used to adjust the icing consistency for easy spreading.
• Pink food coloring – Just a few drops bring a visually appealing pop to your cake.
• Sprinkles (optional) – A fun, festive addition that adds pizzazz to your sweet creation.
How to Make Simple Cortadillo (Mexican Pink Cake)
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by greasing and flouring your favorite cake pan to ensure that your Simple Cortadillo cake releases easily after baking.
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Mix the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine salt until well combined, ensuring a light texture for your cake.
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Cream the butter and sugar. In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for a rich flavor!
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Add the eggs. Incorporate the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help create a smooth batter with a nice rise.
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Stir in the wet ingredients. Pour in the whole milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) into the creamed mixture. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
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Combine the dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix to keep your cake tender.
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Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even cooking, making your cake beautiful from the start.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when your cake is perfectly baked.
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Cool the cake completely. Allow it to rest on a wire rack, providing the perfect canvas for your frosting and letting the flavors develop beautifully.
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Make the icing. In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar with enough milk or cream for your desired consistency. Add pink food coloring until you reach that lovely shade you adore.
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Frost the cooled cake. Gently spread the icing over your Simple Cortadillo cake and decorate with sprinkles if you wish, transforming it into a festive centerpiece for your gathering.
Optional: Add a dash of almond extract to your icing for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Simple Cortadillo Cake
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter that traps air, creating a light texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when combining dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the fluffy Simple Cortadillo you desire.
• Check for Doneness: Always use a toothpick to test doneness. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes to avoid a soggy center.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let your cake cool fully; otherwise, warm cake will melt the icing, resulting in a messy finish.
• Customize Your Icing: Don’t shy away from experimentation! Add your favorite extracts or a touch of lemon juice for brightness in the icing for your Simple Cortadillo creation.
• Storage Tips: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or refrigerate for longer freshness without sacrificing flavor.
Storage Tips for Simple Cortadillo Cake
Room Temperature: Store your Simple Cortadillo cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful flavor and moisture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days; however, the texture may be slightly denser.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can last for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a slice on hand!
Reheating: For a delicious warm treat, thaw your cake overnight in the fridge and gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
Simple Cortadillo Variations
Feel free to personalize your Simple Cortadillo cake with these fun and tasty twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free mix; just make sure to check for proper rising agents.
This allows everyone to enjoy this delightful treat without worry, keeping family gatherings inclusive and fun. -
Nut-Free: Omit almond extract and use extra vanilla for a delightful vanilla flavor.
This way, you keep the essence without the nuts while still delivering a deliciously sweet cake. -
Flavor Infusion: Add zest from one lemon or orange to bring a bright, citrus twist to the cake.
The citrus zest adds a lively touch that balances the sweetness beautifully, making each bite a zestful surprise. -
Rich Icing: Use cream cheese instead of milk to create a tangy icing that enhances the overall flavor.
The creamy, tangy notes will elevate your cake and leave everyone asking for the secret ingredient! -
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate and drizzle on top instead of traditional icing, creating a decadent dessert option.
This turn will appeal to all chocolate lovers, taking your cake to a whole new level of indulgence! -
Altered Sweetness: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a deeper flavor with a hint of caramel.
This swaps out the sweetness for something more unique, adding a lovely touch to your cake’s profile. -
Fruity Add-Ins: Fold in a cup of fresh berries or diced peaches into the batter before baking for natural sweetness.
These fruity additions bring a burst of color and flavor, making each slice a fruity delight! -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a fragrant, warm flavor profile.
Just a hint will elevate the flavor, providing a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Cortadillo cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance; just mix everything together, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to enjoy your cake, simply pour the batter into the prepared pan and pop it in the oven as directed. Additionally, you can make the icing a day ahead and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge; just give it a quick stir before frosting. This way, your delicious Simple Cortadillo will be just as delightful, minimizing your prep time and ensuring your gatherings are stress-free!
What to Serve with Vanilla Almond Cake?
Pairing a rich, sweet cake with delightful sides creates a memorable dining experience that enchants the senses.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy, tart berries provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake, enhancing every bite.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a creamy texture that beautifully complements the cake’s almond notes.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or fragrant tea balances the sweetness of the cake, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Smooth ice cream melts against the warm cake, creating an indulgent dessert experience that’s simply irresistible.
- Almond Brittle: Crunchy and sweet, almond brittle offers a delightful textural contrast that elevates the cake’s flavor profile.
- Chocolate Ganache: Rich and glossy, a drizzle of chocolate ganache adds an elegant touch and deepens the dessert’s overall flavor.
- Caramel Sauce: The sweet, buttery notes of caramel enhance the vanilla and almond flavors, creating a luscious experience for your taste buds.
- Citrus Sorbet: A zesty citrus sorbet refreshes the palate, making it the ideal palate cleanser alongside the rich cake.
- Lavender Lemonade: Pouring a glass of floral lemonade brightens the occasion, adding a unique, refreshing twist to your dessert spread.
Simple Cortadillo (Mexican Pink Cake) Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for my Simple Cortadillo cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, ensure your butter is soft at room temperature—this means it should give slightly when pressed but not be melted. When selecting eggs, look for ones with no cracks and a fresh date printed on the carton. If you can, use whole milk that’s fresh because it enhances the cake’s moisture.
How should I store leftover Simple Cortadillo cake?
You can keep your Simple Cortadillo cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal taste and moisture. If you live in a particularly warm environment, it’s best to refrigerate it, where it can last up to 5 days, though the texture may become a bit denser.
Can I freeze my Simple Cortadillo cake? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Simple Cortadillo, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste.
What if my Simple Cortadillo cake doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your cake doesn’t rise, it could be due to expired baking powder or not properly creaming the butter and sugar together. Always check the expiration date on your baking powder and beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy before adding other ingredients. And remember, don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry and wet ingredients!
Can I make this cake if I have a nut allergy?
Of course! If you’re avoiding nuts, simply omit the almond extract from the recipe. The vanilla will still give you a lovely flavor, and you can also consider substituting the almond extract with an equal amount of coconut extract for a different twist that stays deliciously flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for pets?
No, it’s not! While the cake is safe for human consumption, it contains ingredients like sugar and butter that can be harmful to pets, especially dogs, when consumed in large amounts. Always keep your baked goods out of reach of furry friends!
Irresistible Simple Cortadillo Mexican Pink Cake Recipe to Try
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pan.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the milk, vanilla, and almond extract to the creamed mixture and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar with milk for icing consistency and add pink coloring.
- Spread the icing over the cooled cake and top with sprinkles if desired.