Broas Castelares

Growing up in a multicultural family, the kitchen was always a vibrant place filled with the scents of different cuisines. One of my fondest memories is baking Broas Castelares with my grandmother. These Portuguese sweet potato cookies are not just a treat; they hold a piece of our heritage. With their beautiful golden hue and unique flavor profile, they have become a staple in our family gatherings. I remember how the kitchen would come alive with laughter and stories as we prepared these delightful cookies together. What makes Broas Castelares truly special is their balance of sweetness and warmth, a perfect representation of family and tradition. They aren’t just cookies; they evoke memories of cozy evenings spent with loved ones, sharing stories over warm treats.

Ingredients to Make Broas Castelares

Creating Broas Castelares starts with quality ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each component has its role, contributing to the cookie’s unique taste and texture. From the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes to the fragrant zests, every ingredient enhances the overall flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3/4 pounds sweet potatoes, scrubbed – The star of the show, sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and moisture, making for a tender cookie.
• 3 1/2 cups granulated sugar – While it may sound like a lot, this sugar is essential for achieving the right sweetness and texture.
• zest of one lemon – Adds a bright citrus flavor that balances the sweetness.
• zest of half an orange – Enhances the flavor with a hint of orange aroma.
• 2-3 tablespoons finely chopped candied ginger – Provides a unique spice and warmth that complements the sweet potato.
• 1 cup shredded dried coconut – Adds texture and a subtle coconut flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups super fine blanched almond meal – A gluten-free alternative that adds richness and a nutty flavor.
• 3/4 cup finely ground cornmeal – Contributes to the cookie’s texture and provides a slight crunch.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• 2 large eggs – Acts as a binding agent and adds moisture.
• 1/4 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional) – Offers a floral note that enhances the cookie’s flavor.
• 1 large egg yolk for brushing – Gives the cookies a beautiful golden color when baked.

How to Assemble Broas Castelares

Making Broas Castelares is a rewarding experience that fills your home with wonderful aromas. Follow these steps to create your own batch of these delicious cookies. You’ll enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen as you craft these delightful treats.

1. Pierce the sweet potatoes all over with a fork and bake in the oven at 400 degrees F for 45 minutes or until soft. The skin will darken, and the flesh will become tender.
2. Let the sweet potatoes cool for a few minutes, then scoop out the flesh into a bowl. It should be soft and easily mashable.
3. Run the sweet potato flesh through a potato ricer to achieve a smooth consistency. This step is crucial for avoiding lumps in your cookies.
4. Place the sweet potato in a small to medium pot and add the granulated sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved, creating a sweet liquid.
5. Add the lemon zest, orange zest, and candied ginger to the mixture. The aroma will be fantastic!
6. Increase the heat to medium-high and simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. It should thicken slightly.
7. Remove the pot from the heat and add all remaining ingredients except the eggs, orange blossom water, and egg yolk. Stir until thoroughly combined; the dough will be sticky.
8. Next, add the eggs and orange blossom water if using. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
9. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the dough to firm up.
10. The next day, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Scoop out the dough using a spoon, rolling it into balls about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 inches in diameter.
11. Shape each ball into an oval with tapered ends. Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and gently press them just to slightly flatten them.
12. Brush the tops of the cookies with the egg yolk to give them a golden color when baked.
13. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly browned. The edges will be firm, while the centers remain soft.
14. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. They can also be stored in an airtight container or ziplock bag, making them perfect for freezing.

Helpful Notes about Broas Castelares

When making Broas Castelares, consider these helpful notes to enhance your baking experience:

• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container.
• Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks.
• Variations: Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
• Presentation: Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving for a lovely touch.

How to Serve Broas Castelares

• Enjoy with a warm beverage: Serve Broas Castelares with coffee or tea to enhance their flavors during a cozy afternoon.
• Perfect for gatherings: These cookies are great for family gatherings, parties, or celebrations. They will be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Holiday treat: Make them a part of your holiday traditions by baking them during festive seasons.
• Gift them: Present these cookies in a decorative tin as a heartfelt gift for friends and neighbors.
• Storage tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and flavor.
• Versatile serving: They can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even a sweet breakfast treat.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Broas Castelares are not just delicious cookies; they represent a piece of Portuguese heritage. With their unique flavor and comforting texture, they are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy afternoons. I encourage you to try your hand at baking them for yourself. You’ll not only enjoy the delightful taste but also connect with a beautiful tradition that has been cherished for generations.

Broas Castelares

The ultimate comfort food, Broas Castelares are Portuguese sweet potato cookies that are soft, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. With a touch of candied ginger and citrus zest, these cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth. Make a batch tonight and experience the joy they bring!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 30 cookies

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: Portuguese

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3/4 pounds Sweet Potatoes scrubbed
• 3 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar
• 1 unit Zest of Lemon
• 0.5 unit Zest of Orange
• 2-3 tablespoons Candied Ginger finely chopped
• 1 cup Dried Coconut shredded
• 1 1/2 cups Almond Meal super fine and blanched
• 3/4 cups Cornmeal finely ground
• 1/2 cup All-purpose Flour
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 2 large Eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon Orange Blossom Water optional
• 1 large Egg Yolk for brushing

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Pierce the sweet potatoes all over with a fork and bake in the oven at 400 degrees F for 45 minutes or until soft. Let it cool a few minutes then scrape out the flesh.
2. Run the sweet potato flesh through a potato ricer. Place it in a small-medium pot with the sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved to liquid.
3. Add the lemon zest, orange zest, and candied ginger. Increase the heat to medium-high and simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
4. Remove from heat and add all remaining ingredients except for the eggs, orange blossom water, and egg yolk. Stir to thoroughly combine.
5. Then add the eggs and orange blossom water and stir to thoroughly combine. Let the mixture cool, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and the dough firm up.
6. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Use a spoon to scoop out the dough and roll into balls about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 inches in diameter.
7. Then shape each ball into an oval with tapered ends. Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and gently press them just to very slightly flatten them and brush them with the egg yolk.
8. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly browned. Let cool completely.

Notes

Yes, that really is 3 1/2 cups of sugar, which is actually less than what many traditional recipes call for!

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.