Colombian Holiday Bread(Mantecada)
Colombian Holiday Bread, known as Mantecada, offers a rich buttery flavor with hints of vanilla and raisins, perfect for festive gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, mix butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- In another bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, cornstarch, and baking powder.
- Add dry ingredients and eggs to the butter mixture, alternating 1/2 cup of dry ingredients and 2 eggs, mixing well after each addition until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in lemon juice or rum and raisins.
- Grease two 9 x 13-inch pans or one 9 x 13-inch and two 8 x 8-inch square pans.
- Pour batter into pans about 2/3 full.
- Bake at 325°F for 60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, separate the egg whites and beat them until stiff peaks form, then fold them into the batter at the end. If you don’t have cornmeal, you can substitute with an equal amount of flour. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile. Make sure to check the baking time, as ovens may vary.
Serving Suggestions
Mantecada is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Consider serving it alongside a fruit salad or a light yogurt for a balanced meal. It also makes a great dessert option for holiday gatherings, complementing dishes like Garlic Potato Dish or Raspberry Custard.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Mantecada in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or use the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Colombian Holiday Bread(Mantecada) contains roughly 1441 calories, with 5g protein, 268g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (88% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use less sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar by up to 1/2 cup without significantly altering the texture. Keep in mind that the sweetness might be less pronounced, so taste the batter before baking to ensure it meets your preference.
What can I use instead of raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, you can substitute with other dried fruits like cranberries, chopped apricots, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor. Just ensure that the total amount of mix-ins remains the same.
Can I freeze Mantecada?
Yes, Mantecada freezes well. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).