Afternoon Delight: Fluffy Cheese Puto Recipe

Cheese Puto is a Filipino steamed rice cake that has been a staple in Filipino cuisine for generations. Known for its light, fluffy texture and savory-sweet flavor, cheese puto is typically enjoyed as a snack or dessert. The addition of cheese gives this traditional delicacy a modern twist, making it even more irresistible.

Cheese Puto holds a special place in the hearts of many Filipinos. It’s commonly served during merienda (afternoon snack) and is a popular choice for fiestas and family gatherings. This delightful treat represents the fusion of traditional and contemporary Filipino flavors, making it a beloved comfort food across the Philippines.

While Cheese Puto is enjoyed mainly for its taste, it also offers some nutritional benefits. It provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a satisfying snack. The inclusion of cheese adds calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and muscle maintenance.

In today’s culinary landscape, Cheese Puto has found its way into various fusion dishes and innovative recipes. It’s not uncommon to find cheese puto paired with trendy beverages like milk tea or incorporated into gourmet desserts. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Key Ingredients

To make the perfect Cheese Puto, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Flour: Provides structure to the puto.

Baking Powder: Helps the puto rise and become fluffy.

Sugar: Adds sweetness.

Fresh Milk: Contributes to a moist and tender texture.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.

Melted Butter: Adds flavor and moisture.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste.

Cheddar Cheese: Adds a savory element and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutes and Variations

Flour: You can use rice flour for a gluten-free version.

Milk: Substitute with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Butter: Replace with coconut oil or margarine if preferred.

Cheddar Cheese: Use any melting cheese like mozzarella or gouda.

Essential Kitchen Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls

Whisk

Measuring cups and spoons

Steamer or large pot with a steaming rack

Silicone molds or muffin cups

Grater for cheese

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ cup of sugar in a mixing bowl. Ensure that these ingredients are well combined to avoid lumps in the batter.

Mixing the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 150 grams of fresh milk, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Make sure the egg is fully incorporated into the mixture.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the puto dense.

Steaming Techniques

Grease your silicone molds or muffin cups and fill them about three-quarters full with the batter. Place the molds in a preheated steamer and steam for 10 minutes over medium heat.

Adding Cheese Topping

After 10 minutes, open the steamer and quickly place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each puto. Cover the steamer again and continue steaming for another 2 minutes until the cheese melts.

Final Steaming Step

Once the cheese has melted, remove the molds from the steamer and let the puto cool slightly before serving. This allows the texture to set and makes it easier to remove from the molds.

Choosing the Right Molds

Silicone molds are ideal for making cheese puto because they ensure easy removal and even cooking. If you don’t have silicone molds, you can use regular muffin cups, but make sure to grease them well.

Steaming Tips for Fluffiness

To achieve a light and fluffy texture, ensure that your steamer is properly preheated and that you maintain a consistent steaming temperature. Avoid opening the steamer too often, as this can cause the puto to collapse.

Timing and Temperature Control

Steaming time is crucial for perfect puto. Steam for exactly 10 minutes before adding the cheese, and then for another 2 minutes after. Oversteaming can lead to dry and dense puto, while understeaming can result in a raw center.

Customizing Toppings and Flavors

Cheese puto is highly customizable. Besides cheddar cheese, you can try toppings like shredded coconut, salted egg, or even sweet options like Nutella or caramel for a unique twist.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overmixing the Batter

Overmixing can lead to tough and dense puto. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined to maintain a light texture.

Incorrect Steaming Time

Steaming for too long or too short can ruin the texture of your puto. Stick to the recommended steaming times for the best results.

Using the Wrong Type of Cheese

Not all cheeses melt well. Cheddar cheese is recommended for its perfect melting properties and flavor. Avoid using hard cheeses that don’t melt smoothly.

Not Greasing the Molds Properly

To prevent the puto from sticking, ensure that your molds are well-greased. Silicone molds usually require less greasing, but it’s still a good idea to lightly coat them with oil or butter.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

A single serving of Cheese Puto typically contains around 150-200 calories, making it a moderate snack option.

Macronutrients Breakdown

Carbohydrates: Provides energy.

Proteins: Essential for muscle repair and growth.

Fats: Contributes to satiety and flavor.

Vitamins and Minerals

Calcium: From the cheese, important for bone health.

Vitamin A: Present in eggs and butter, good for vision and skin health.

Iron: Found in flour and eggs, crucial for blood health.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Cheese: High in calcium and protein.

Eggs: Rich in high-quality protein and essential vitamins.

Milk: Provides calcium, protein, and vitamin D.

Flour: A good source of carbohydrates and some dietary fiber.

Beverages to Enjoy with Cheese Puto

Coffee: The bitterness complements the sweet and savory flavor of the puto.

Milk Tea: Adds a creamy contrast.

Hot Chocolate: A rich, indulgent pairing.

Puto has its roots in pre-colonial Philippines, where it was made using rice flour and cooked in clay pots. Over the centuries, it has evolved with various influences, including the addition of cheese.

Cheese puto became popular as Filipinos started experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. The addition of cheese is a relatively modern twist that has made this traditional snack even more appealing.

Today, cheese puto is a staple in many Filipino celebrations, from birthday parties to Christmas feasts. Its versatility and delicious taste make it a crowd favorite.

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Cheese puto is a Filipino steamed cake made with rice flour, milk, eggs, butter or oil, sugar, and shredded cheese (usually a salty cheese like cheddar or edam). The batter is steamed in small ramekins or puto molds, resulting in soft, fluffy cakes with a cheesy flavor throughout.

The main difference is that cheese puto contains shredded cheese mixed right into the batter before steaming. Regular puto does not have cheese in the batter itself. Cheese puto also often uses milk instead of water in the batter for a richer texture and flavor.

Yes, you can make cheese puto without a steamer. You can use a regular pot with a tight-fitting lid. Add about 1 inch of water to the pot and a flat steaming rack or plate. Cover and bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. Place the puto molds on the rack, cover, and steam for 20-25 minutes.

Freshly steamed cheese puto will last 2-3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. You can refresh stale puto by microwaving for 10-15 seconds before eating. Properly stored in the refrigerator, cheese puto will keep for about 5-7 days.

Yes, cheese puto freezes very well. Allow freshly steamed puto to cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in an airtight freezer bag. Frozen cheese puto will keep for 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating and serving.

Cheese Puto is more than just a snack; it’s a delightful treat that combines tradition and modernity. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. So why wait? Try making your own fluffy cheese puto today and experience this beloved Filipino delicacy.