Cavacas Portuguese Popovers

Cavacas are a traditional Portuguese pastry known for their light, airy texture and slightly sweet flavor. These popovers are typically enjoyed during celebrations and holidays, offering a delightful treat that's not overly sweet. They're perfect to enjoy alone or with a cup of tea or coffee. 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Batter:

• 2 cups all purpose flour

• 1 cup vegetable or canola oil

• ½ cup milk (dairy or non dairy)

• 8 large eggs (room temperature)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Icing:

• 2 cups powdered (icing) sugar

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

• 2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 24-count mini muffin tin or two 12-count standard muffin tins.

2. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium-high speed for at least 20 minutes. This extended mixing time incorporates air into the batter, giving the popovers their characteristic puffiness. 

3. Fill the Tins: Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tins. For mini muffin tins, fill each cup about three-quarters full. For standard muffin tins, fill each cup halfway.

4. Bake: Place the tins on the middle rack of the oven. Bake for approximately 45 minutes for a slightly moist interior, or up to 1 hour for a drier texture. The popovers should be golden brown and puffed. 

5. Cool: Remove the popovers from the oven and let them cool in the tins for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire cooling rack. Note that they may deflate slightly as they cool.

6. Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, lemon zest (if using), and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired icing consistency.

7. Ice the Popovers: Once the popovers have cooled, spoon the icing over each one or dip the tops into the icing.

8. Serve: Cavacas are best enjoyed on the same day but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They can also be frozen unglazed for up to a month; thaw at room temperature and apply fresh icing before serving. 

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 185 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 18 g

• Protein: 3 g

• Fat: 11 g

  • Saturated Fat: 1 g

  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 3 g

  • Monounsaturated Fat: 7 g

  • Trans Fat: 1 g

• Cholesterol: 55 mg

• Sodium: 24 mg

• Potassium: 40 mg

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 10 g

• Vitamin A: 89 IU

• Calcium: 17 mg

• Iron: 1 mg