How to Make Tortita Negra: A Delicious Journey to Nicaragua

Tortita Negra, literally translating to “little black cake,” is a Nicaraguan delicacy that will captivate your taste buds. This delightful treat boasts a rich, molasses-infused flavor with hints of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. Imagine biting into a moist, slightly chewy cake that melts in your mouth, leaving behind a symphony of comforting flavors. Intrigued? Let’s embark on a culinary adventure and learn How To Make Tortita Negra right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For this delightful journey, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee

For the Glaze (optional but highly recommended):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

Before we begin, gather these kitchen essentials:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatulas
• Toothpick
• Wire rack

Baking the Tortita Negra

Now, let’s dive into the heart of the recipe:

1. Prepare the Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. For extra insurance against sticking, line the bottom of each pan with a circle of parchment paper.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer for this step to save time and effort.

4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

5. Incorporate Molasses and Coffee: Gradually add the molasses, alternating with the coffee, and mix until well combined. Don’t worry if the batter seems a bit thin at this stage.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

7. Divide and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool Completely: Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

The Finishing Touch: Glaze (Optional)

While the cakes cool, you can prepare the optional but highly recommended glaze:

1. Whisk Together: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

2. Glaze the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, pour the glaze over the top of one cake layer. Top with the second cake layer and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal incorporation and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and cloves to your liking. For a more pronounced spice flavor, add an extra pinch of each.

• Storage: Store any leftover Tortita Negra in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Tortita Negra is more than just a cake; it’s a taste of Nicaraguan culture and tradition. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate this delightful treat in your own home. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and embark on this delicious journey today. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and tag us on social media!