Hojuelas

Hojuelas Recipe from Colombia - Delicious Butter Flour Snack

Region / culture: Colombia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Hojuelas are a traditional Spanish dessert that are popular during the holiday season. These crispy, fried pastries are often enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee. The dough is rolled out thin, cut into strips, and deep fried until golden and crispy. They are then sprinkled with sugar for a sweet finish.

History

Hojuelas have been enjoyed in Spain for centuries, especially during Christmas and other special occasions. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to the classic dish. Hojuelas are a beloved treat that brings people together to celebrate and enjoy each other's company.

Ingredients

0.5 cup (0.25 lb (113 g)) of butter
3 cups of flour
1 tsp of salt
1 tbsp of sugar
5 tbsp of orange juice
3 tbsp of ice cold water
cooking oil
sugar to sprinkle

How to prepare

Mix the butter and flour using two forks.
Once well mixed, add the salt, sugar, juice, and water and blend together.
Without touching the dough with your fingers, roll it out and fold it in half.
Repeat this process two more times and place the dough in the refrigerator until chilled.
Roll out the dough very thin and cut it into diagonal strips.
Make a slit in the center of each strip.
Deep fry the strips in hot cooking oil until they turn golden.
Drain the fried strips on paper towels.
Generously sprinkle sugar over the squares.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
Drizzle with honey or chocolate sauce for a sweet twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roll out the dough very thin for crispy hojuelas.

- Be careful when deep frying the strips, as they can cook quickly.

- Drain the fried hojuelas on paper towels to remove excess oil.

- Sprinkle sugar over the hojuelas while they are still warm for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Hojuelas are best enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Deep frying

- Rolling out dough

Ingredient Substitutions

Margarine can be used instead of butter.

- Lemon juice can be used instead of orange juice.

Make Ahead Tips

Hojuelas can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange hojuelas on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Hojuelas pair well with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store hojuelas in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to crisp them up.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of hojuelas contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of hojuelas contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of hojuelas contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of hojuelas contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Hojuelas are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Hojuelas contain gluten and dairy.

Summary

Hojuelas are a delicious treat that are high in carbohydrates and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as a special indulgence.

Summary

Hojuelas are a delightful Spanish dessert that are perfect for special occasions. These crispy, fried pastries are easy to make and are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy them with a cup of hot chocolate for a truly indulgent treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Hojuelas. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the air.

Maria was bustling about, her hands flying as she rolled out dough and cut it into strips. Curious, I asked her what she was making, and she grinned mischievously before handing me a piece of the dough to taste.

The moment the sweet, crispy Hojuelas touched my tongue, I knew I had to learn how to make them myself. Maria laughed at my enthusiasm and handed me a pen and paper, telling me to write down the recipe as she went along.

I watched intently as Maria mixed flour, sugar, and eggs together to form a smooth dough. She then rolled it out thinly and cut it into strips before frying them in hot oil until they turned a golden brown. Once they were cooked, she sprinkled them with a generous amount of cinnamon sugar, creating a mouthwatering treat that was impossible to resist.

As I tasted another Hojuela, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own collection. Maria smiled at me knowingly, her eyes twinkling with pride as she passed on her knowledge to me.

Over the years, I have made these Hojuelas countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that Maria taught me so many years ago.

I have since learned that Hojuelas are a traditional Mexican dessert, often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. They are a symbol of celebration and togetherness, a reminder of the joys of gathering around a table with loved ones.

I have also discovered that every cook puts their own unique spin on the recipe, adding their own special touch to make it truly their own. Some prefer to sprinkle the Hojuelas with powdered sugar, while others drizzle them with honey or caramel sauce.

For me, nothing beats the classic combination of cinnamon and sugar, the perfect balance of sweet and spicy that never fails to satisfy my cravings.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about the day I first learned to make Hojuelas, I am filled with gratitude for Maria and her generosity in sharing her recipe with me. I am grateful for the memories we have shared, the laughter and love that have accompanied each batch of Hojuelas we have made together.

I know that whenever I make these delicious treats, Maria is with me in spirit, guiding my hands and infusing each bite with her warmth and wisdom. And for that, I will always be grateful.

So here's to Hojuelas, a recipe that has brought me joy and connection with those I love. May they continue to be a part of my life for many years to come, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.