Traditional Catalan Neules: A Delectable Christmas Delight

Ingredients

3 large eggs
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of water
1 tablespoon of lemon zest
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
Powdered sugar for dusting

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the flour to the egg mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Add the water to the mixture, continuing to stir.
Stir in the lemon zest and melted butter until well combined.
Pour the mixture onto the lined baking tray and spread it out evenly using a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
While still warm, cut the baked mixture into strips and roll into cylinders.
Allow the Neules to cool completely on a wire rack.
Before serving, dust the Neules with powdered sugar.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
Whisk - Used to beat the eggs and sugar until fluffy.
Spatula - To spread the mixture evenly on the baking tray.
Baking Tray - A flat tray used to bake the Neules.
Parchment Paper - Lined on the baking tray to prevent sticking.
Wire Rack - Used to cool the Neules after baking.
Powdered Sugar Shaker - For dusting the Neules with powdered sugar before serving.

Recipe variations

Use almond flour or cornmeal instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a spiced flavor.
Replace the lemon zest with orange zest for a citrus twist.
Add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the batter for an extra kick.
Sprinkle chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) on top of the batter before baking for added crunch.
Swap the traditional cylindrical shape for a different shape, such as cones or spirals.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled Neules for a chocolatey variation.
For a savory option, omit the sugar and lemon zest, and instead add herbs or spices like rosemary, thyme, or paprika to the batter.
Include a filling inside the Neules, such as Nutella, jam, or cream, before rolling them up.
Experiment with different toppings, such as powdered cinnamon sugar or colored sprinkles.

Recipe overview

This delightful recipe will guide you through the process of creating Neules, a traditional Catalan Christmas treat. Neules are light and crispy wafers, often enjoyed with a glass of Cava during the festive season. While they may look complex, they're actually quite simple to make at home, requiring a handful of basic ingredients and a little patience. The key to perfect Neules is in the baking - they need to be golden brown and crisp. Once they're baked and shaped, a dusting of powdered sugar adds the final touch. Enjoy creating this sweet and zesty holiday delicacy!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can try using alternative flours like whole wheat flour or almond flour, but keep in mind that the texture and taste of the Neules may be slightly different.
Do I have to add lemon zest?
No, the lemon zest adds a citrusy flavor to the Neules, but if you prefer a plain taste, you can omit it.
Can I substitute the granulated sugar with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar or honey, but note that it may alter the taste and texture of the Neules.
Can I make Neules ahead of time?
Yes, Neules can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Just make sure to dust them with powdered sugar before serving.
Can I freeze Neules?
Yes, Neules can be frozen for up to a month. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking Tray - A flat, rectangular tray used for baking the Neules in the oven.
Parchment Paper - Non-stick paper used to line the baking tray and prevent the Neules from sticking.
Large Bowl - A bowl for mixing the ingredients together.
Spatula - A utensil used for spreading the mixture evenly on the baking tray.
Wire Rack - A cooling rack to allow the Neules to cool down and set properly.
Powdered Sugar Shaker - A shaker container specifically designed for dusting powdered sugar onto the Neules.

Origin stories

Neules are a traditional Catalan dessert, particularly enjoyed during the Christmas season. They date back to medieval times when they were baked by nuns in monasteries and used as decorations for the nativity scenes in Churches. These delicate, crispy wafers would hang like icicles, giving a touch of winter wonder to the scene. Over time, they have evolved into a favorite holiday treat, often paired with a glass of Cava, a local sparkling wine. Even today in Catalonia, the presence of Neules on a Christmas table signifies the importance of preserving traditions and celebrating the joyous holiday season.

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.