How to Make Hoguera Cake: A Taste of Alicante’s Vibrant Fiesta

Imagine biting into a cake that embodies the warmth, energy, and joyous spirit of a Spanish fiesta. That’s exactly what Hoguera Cake, or Coca de San Juan, offers. Hailing from Alicante, Spain, this delightful treat is traditionally enjoyed during the bonfires of the San Juan festival. With its fluffy dough, crunchy meringue topping, and colorful candied fruit, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. If you’re ready to bring a taste of Spain to your kitchen, then let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe.

Ingredients for a Taste of Sunshine:

For the Dough:

• 300g all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 50g granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 120ml lukewarm milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 50g unsalted butter, melted and cooled

For the Meringue Topping:

• 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 100g granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• Candied fruits (such as cherries, citron, orange peel), for decorating

Tools of the Trade:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch round baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Let the Fiesta Begin: Baking Steps

1. Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, until the yeast is foamy.
2. Add the sugar, salt, beaten egg, lemon zest, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Assembling the Hoguera Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Gently press the dough evenly into the pan.
3. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, beating continuously until the meringue is glossy and thick.
4. Spread the meringue evenly over the dough, leaving a slight border around the edges.
5. Decorate the top with candied fruits, pressing them gently into the meringue.

3. Baking and Serving:

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown and the cake is cooked through.
2. Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips from a Baking Aficionado:

• Yeast Activation: Ensuring your yeast is active is crucial for a fluffy cake. If the yeast doesn’t foam after 5 minutes in the warm milk, it might be old and you’ll need a fresh batch.
• Room Temperature Egg Whites: For a stable and voluminous meringue, use egg whites that are at room temperature. This allows them to whip up to their full potential.
• Candied Fruit Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different candied fruits or even dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a personalized touch.

Hoguera Cake Fresh From the Oven

FAQs: Your Hoguera Cake Queries Answered:

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

A: Absolutely! If you’re using instant yeast, you can skip the blooming step and add it directly to the dry ingredients. However, make sure your milk is still lukewarm.

Q: My meringue isn’t stiffening, what should I do?

A: This could be due to a few factors: your egg whites might have traces of yolk, your bowl isn’t completely clean and dry, or your egg whites are not at room temperature. Double-check these aspects and try again.

Q: How should I store leftover Hoguera Cake?

A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two.

A Bite of Spanish Tradition:

Hoguera Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. As you take a bite, let the flavors transport you to the lively streets of Alicante, with the scent of bonfires and the sound of music filling the air. Share this taste of Spain with your loved ones and create your own fiesta memories.

Slice of Hoguera Cake on a Plate

Ready to explore more culinary adventures? Check out our other delectable recipes and baking tips on Family Cuisine! Don’t forget to share your Hoguera Cake creations with us in the comments below – we love seeing your culinary masterpieces!