Mona de Pasqua - Traditional Spanish Easter Cake

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
• 120ml (1/2 cup) warm milk 120ml (1/2 cup) warm milk
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• 6 hard-boiled eggs, dyed in various colors 6 hard-boiled eggs, dyed in various colors
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 47g, 18g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, softened butter, eggs, orange zest, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. 3.
   Pour in the yeast mixture and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each into a round loaf.
7. 7.
   Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and gently press the hard-boiled eggs into the dough, arranging them in a decorative pattern.
8. 8.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaves turn golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the Mona de Pasqua cool completely.
10. 10.
    Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Orange zest — Make sure to use organic oranges and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any pesticide residue.
• Lemon zest — Choose fresh and firm lemons for the best flavor. Avoid grating the white pith, as it can add bitterness to the cake.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more festive touch, you can decorate the Mona de Pasqua with colorful sprinkles or edible flowers.
• Serve the cake slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
• If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.
• To ensure a tender and moist texture, avoid over-kneading the dough. Stop kneading as soon as it becomes smooth and elastic.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Slice the Mona de Pasqua into thick wedges and serve it as a centerpiece dessert during Easter celebrations. Accompany it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful treat.

Presentation advice

Place the Mona de Pasqua on a decorative cake stand or a serving platter. Dust it generously with powdered sugar to create an elegant and inviting appearance. Arrange some fresh flowers or colorful Easter decorations around the cake for a festive touch.