Quimbolitos

Quimbolitos are traditional Ecuadorian steamed cakes made with corn flour, eggs, and cheese, wrapped in banana leaves for a light, fluffy texture and a subtly sweet flavor.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Course Dessert

Cuisine Ecuadorian

Servings quimbolitos

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk for mixing ingredients
Steamer pot for steaming quimbolitos
Banana leaves cut into squares
Kitchen twine for securing banana leaf packets

Ingredients

1.5 cups corn flour not cornmeal
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
0.75 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs room temperature
0.5 cup milk room temperature
0.5 cup crumbled fresh cheese such as queso fresco
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.25 cup raisins optional, for garnish

Instructions

Cut banana leaves into squares and briefly pass them over heat to make them pliable. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together corn flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, then mix in the milk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a smooth batter forms.
Gently fold in the crumbled fresh cheese.
Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter into each banana leaf square. Garnish with raisins if using, then fold and secure with kitchen twine.
Place quimbolitos in a steamer pot and steam for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool for 5 minutes before unwrapping and serving warm.

Notes

Optional Equipment: A stand mixer can be used for easier batter mixing.
Customization: Add anise seeds for a more traditional flavor.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Tip: Enjoy with coffee or hot chocolate for an authentic Ecuadorian experience.

Nutrition

Serving: 190Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 0.8mg

Keyword Corn Flour Cakes, Ecuadorian Steamed Cakes, Quimbolitos, Traditional Ecuadorian Desserts