Torticas de Moron

Torticas de Moron Recipe - Traditional Cuban Dessert

Region / culture: Cuba | Servings: 12

Introduction

Torticas de Moron are traditional Cuban sugar cookies that are beloved for their simple yet delicious flavor. These cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea, and make a great snack or dessert.

History

Torticas de Moron have been a staple in Cuban cuisine for generations. The recipe originated in the town of Moron, located in the Ciego de Avila province of Cuba. These cookies are a popular treat during holidays and special occasions, and are often enjoyed with family and friends.

Ingredients

1 cup of sugar
1 cup of shortening
3 cups of all-purpose flour
1.5 tsp of grated lime zest

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the shortening and sugar.
Gradually add the flour, one tablespoon at a time, ensuring thorough mixing after each addition.
Add the lime zest to the mixture and continue to mix until well combined.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface.
Using a cookie cutter, cut the dough into circles with a diameter of 2 inches.
Shape the circles into patties using your hands.
Arrange the patties on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgent treat.
Swap out the lime zest for lemon or orange zest for a different citrus twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cream the shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy for the best texture.

- Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.

- For a burst of citrus flavor, you can add a little extra lime zest to the dough.

- To prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping and baking.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Torticas de Moron with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack or dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming the shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy is key to achieving the perfect texture for these cookies.

- Rolling out the dough on a floured surface and cutting it into circles ensures even baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of shortening for a slightly different flavor.

- If you don't have lime zest, you can use lemon or orange zest as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Torticas de Moron ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange Torticas de Moron on a decorative platter and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Torticas de Moron pair well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Torticas de Moron in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To reheat, place the cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Torticas de Moron contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Torticas de Moron contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Torticas de Moron contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Torticas de Moron contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Torticas de Moron are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Torticas de Moron contain wheat and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Torticas de Moron are a delicious treat that is relatively low in calories and provides a small amount of fats and carbohydrates.

Summary

Torticas de Moron are a classic Cuban treat that is easy to make and perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. With a simple ingredient list and delicious flavor, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a sunny afternoon in the small town of Moron, Cuba, where I was visiting my dear friend Maria. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on cafecito, she pulled out a worn and tattered cookbook from her bookshelf. She flipped through the pages with a nostalgic smile on her face, reminiscing about her grandmother's famous Torticas de Moron.

Maria's grandmother was known far and wide for her delicious pastries, and the Torticas de Moron were her specialty. As Maria read the recipe out loud, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement bubbling inside me. I had always loved baking, and the thought of trying my hand at this traditional Cuban dessert filled me with joy.

Maria saw the spark in my eyes and knew that I was eager to learn. She handed me the cookbook and said, "You must make these torticas for yourself, mi amiga. They are a taste of home and tradition, passed down through generations."

With a grateful smile, I thanked Maria and promised to make the torticas with all the love and care that her grandmother had put into them. As I read through the recipe, I noticed that it was simple yet filled with intricate details that made all the difference in the final product. From the precise measurements of the ingredients to the specific instructions on how to knead the dough, every step was crucial to achieving the perfect Torticas de Moron.

I spent the rest of the afternoon in Maria's kitchen, carefully following the recipe and kneading the dough with patience and love. The sweet aroma of vanilla and cinnamon filled the air as the torticas baked in the oven, turning a golden brown color that made my mouth water in anticipation.

When the torticas were finally done, I couldn't wait to taste them. I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the delicious flavors that exploded in my mouth. The crunch of the sugar topping, the soft and buttery texture of the pastry, and the hint of cinnamon and vanilla all combined to create a symphony of taste that transported me back to my childhood in Cuba.

From that moment on, Torticas de Moron became a staple in my baking repertoire. I made them for every special occasion and shared the recipe with friends and family who marveled at their unique and exquisite flavor. Each time I baked a batch of torticas, I felt a connection to Maria's grandmother and the rich culinary traditions of Cuba that had been passed down through the generations.

As the years went by, I continued to refine the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I experimented with different variations, using local ingredients and spices to create new and exciting flavors that delighted the taste buds of all who tried them.

Today, whenever I bake Torticas de Moron, I am reminded of that sunny afternoon in Maria's kitchen and the joy of discovering a new recipe that would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire. The tradition lives on through these delicious pastries, bringing a taste of Cuba to my kitchen and filling the hearts of all who enjoy them with warmth and delight.