Delicious Homemade Rosquilla: A Traditional Spanish Delight

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup sesame seeds for topping
1 egg for egg wash

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the softened butter until it is creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and orange zest into the butter and egg mixture.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
Divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion into a rope shape, and then shape each rope into a ring. Place the rings on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small bowl, beat the egg for the egg wash. Brush the top of each rosquilla with the egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rosquillas are golden brown.
Allow the rosquillas to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the dry and wet ingredients.
Whisk - Used for beating the butter and eggs until creamy.
Measuring Cups and Spoons - For accurately measuring the flour, sugar, and other ingredients.
Zester or Microplane - To zest the lemon and orange.
Baking Sheet - A flat sheet used for baking the rosquillas.
Parchment Paper - To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
Brush - For brushing the egg wash onto the rosquillas.
Wire Rack - Used to cool the rosquillas after baking.

Recipe variations

Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative.
Add a tablespoon of ground cinnamon to the dough for a hint of warm spice.
Replace the vanilla extract with almond or anise extract for a different flavor profile.
Add finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the dough for added crunch.
Dip the baked rosquillas in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
Add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the dough for a boozy flavor.
Replace the sesame seeds with shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Make a glaze by mixing powdered sugar and lemon juice, and drizzle it over the cooled rosquillas.
Sprinkle the rosquillas with colored sugar or sprinkles for a festive touch.
Add a teaspoon of ground cardamom for a fragrant and exotic flavor.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the homemade goodness of Rosquillas, traditional Spanish cookies that are sure to become your new favorite treat! These delectable ring-shaped delights, flavored with a delightful mix of lemon and orange zest, are perfect for pairing with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The recipe is quite straightforward, requiring simple ingredients that you likely have in your kitchen. Be prepared to roll and shape the dough into rings, which is a fun activity for the whole family. Once baked to a golden brown and cooled, you'll be rewarded with cookies that offer a delightful crunch and a subtly sweet, citrus-infused flavor. Enjoy the process and the deliciously satisfying outcome!

Common questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter if that's what you have on hand. Just remember to reduce the amount of salt in the recipe by half to maintain the right balance of flavors.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with another type of flour?
While you can experiment with different flours, keep in mind that the texture and taste of the rosquillas may vary. All-purpose flour works best for this recipe as it provides the desired consistency and texture.
Can I add other flavors or spices to the dough?
Definitely! You can customize the recipe by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also experiment with different citrus zests or even add a touch of almond or anise extract for extra flavor.
Can I skip the sesame seed topping?
Yes, you can omit the sesame seed topping if you prefer. The rosquillas will still taste delicious. You can also consider using other toppings like powdered sugar or a simple glaze if desired.
How should I store the rosquillas?
Once completely cooled, store the rosquillas in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowls - Use for combining ingredients.
Whisk - Use to beat the butter and eggs together.
Baking sheet - Use to bake the rosquillas in the oven.
Parchment paper - Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal of the rosquillas and to prevent sticking.
Wire rack - Use to cool the rosquillas after baking.
Pastry brush - Use to brush the egg wash onto the rosquillas before baking.
Rolling pin - Use to shape the dough into ropes for forming the rosquillas.
Zester or grater - Use to zest the lemon and orange for added flavor.

Origin stories

Rosquillas, these delightful donut-shaped pastries, can trace their roots back to Spanish cuisine where they're traditionally enjoyed during the festive period of Las Fallas in Valencia. Interestingly, in Spain, Rosquillas are synonymous with the spring season and are also commonly consumed during the San Isidro Labrador's Day festival in Madrid. Each region has a unique take on these pastries, with variations in the dough, flavourings, and toppings, yet their basic ring shape remains a constant. Notably, in the region of Andalusia, they're even referred to as "rosquillas listas" or "ready rosquillas", playfully indicating that they are always ready to be enjoyed. This delightful pastry has migrated across the world, with variations found in Latin American countries, each adding their own unique spin to the traditional recipe. The humble rosquilla, thus, is not just a treat for the palate, but a celebration of culture and tradition, carrying stories of its origin with every bite.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.