Puto (Steamed Cupcakes)

—Sabina Siquig

• 1 1/2 cups margarine or butter
• 2 1/4 cups sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 3 cups flour
• 1 Tbsp. baking powder
• 4 large eggs
• 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla

Optional topping:

• Fresh shredded coconut

Boil water in a steamer. Line muffin pans with baking cups. Beat margarine under medium speed until fluffy, adding sugar and 1/2 cup of the milk alternately.

Add flour, baking powder, eggs, and the rest of the milk alternately. Continue beating under medium speed for about 1 minute. Add mayonnaise and vanilla. Continue beating until batter is smooth.

Pour into muffin pans and steam for about 15 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting toothpick in the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean, then it’s done.

Makes 16 to 18 cupcakes. Serve hot with melted butter or serve cold with fresh shredded coconut topping.