When it comes to sweet treats, few things can rival the allure of a freshly fried torreja. These crispy, sweet pastries are a staple in many Latin American cultures and have gained popularity worldwide for their irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Whether you like them plain or loaded with toppings, there’s no denying that torrejas are a treat for the taste buds.
In this article, we’re excited to share 18 mouthwatering torreja recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth and take your snack game to the next level. From classic cinnamon and honey syrup to innovative flavors like orange infused with citrus glaze and chocolate dipped with sea salt, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for a new recipe to try out, we’ve got you covered. So grab your frying pan and get ready to indulge in the sweet world of torrejas!
Classic Cinnamon Torrejas with Honey Syrup
Torrejas are a traditional Spanish dessert that combines the sweetness of honey syrup with the warmth of cinnamon and the fluffiness of bread. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make classic cinnamon torrejas at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– Honey syrup (recipe below)
Honey Syrup:
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bread, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and eggs.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
4. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop the bread mixture into the oil and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with honey syrup drizzled over top.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Orange Infused Torrejas with Citrus Glaze
Torrejas are traditional Spanish-style French toast, and by infusing them with the bright flavors of orange and citrus glaze, you’ll create a unique breakfast or brunch dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah bread
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup citrus glaze (see below)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Citrus Glaze:
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together orange juice, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
2. Slice the Challah bread into 1-inch thick slices and soak each slice in the orange mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the torrejas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Serve warm with citrus glaze drizzled on top and dust with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Bean Torrejas with Whipped Cream
Torrejas are a traditional Spanish dessert that typically consists of soaked bread pudding, but this recipe gives it a twist by incorporating vanilla bean and whipped cream. This sweet treat is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 bean, split lengthwise
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, sugar, and melted butter. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. Add vanilla extract, split vanilla bean, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow the torrejas to cool completely before serving with whipped cream (see below).
6. For whipped cream, beat heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar (if using) until stiff peaks form.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Torrejas with Maple Drizzle
These crispy torrejas are infused with the warmth of pumpkin spice, perfect for a fall treat. The addition of maple drizzle adds a sweet and tangy contrast to balance out the flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice blend
– Maple syrup (for drizzling)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add yeast and lukewarm milk; mix until smooth.
3. Beat in egg and pumpkin puree.
4. Fold in pumpkin spice blend.
5. Knead dough for 5 minutes, then let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Roll out dough to desired thickness (1/8 inch).
7. Cut into squares or strips.
8. Fry torrejas in hot oil until golden brown (2-3 minutes per side).
9. Drain and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
10. Drizzle with maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Almond Crusted Torrejas with Berry Compote
A twist on traditional Spanish torrejas, this sweet and crispy dessert is perfect for a romantic evening or special occasion. Crunchy almond crust gives way to tender torreja cake, served with a rich berry compote.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60g) almond meal
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), for compote
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Pour into 4 individual ramekins or small cups.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and centers are set.
4. Allow torrejas to cool completely on a wire rack. In a small bowl, mix almond meal with confectioners’ sugar. Dust cooled torrejas evenly with the almond mixture.
5. To make berry compote, combine fresh berries in a saucepan with 1 tablespoon (15ml) of sugar and 2 tablespoons (30ml) of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries release their juice and the mixture thickens slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature alongside almond crusted torrejas.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Torrejas with Sea Salt
Torreja, a traditional Spanish dessert, gets an indulgent twist with the addition of rich chocolate and flaky sea salt. This sweet treat is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 torrejas (Spanish-style bread pudding)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Dip each torreja into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the dessert.
3. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate-coated torreja immediately after dipping.
4. Place the dipped torrejas on a parchment-lined baking sheet or individual plates.
5. Drizzle with melted butter and serve warm.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake dessert.
Coconut Milk Torrejas with Tropical Fruit Sauce
Torrejas are traditional Latin American-style French toast, but this version gets a tropical twist with the addition of coconut milk and a sweet and tangy fruit sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mixed tropical fruit (such as mango, pineapple, and kiwi), diced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together coconut milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Cook the torrejas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, combine diced fruit, honey, and lime juice in a bowl.
5. Serve the warm torrejas with the tropical fruit sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Zest Torrejas with Lavender Honey
Torrejas are Spanish-style churros filled with sweet and citrusy goodness. This recipe combines the flaky, crispy pastry with a bright lemon zest filling and a drizzle of floral lavender honey for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of churro dough (or make your own)
– 2 lemons, zested
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lavender honey
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together lemon zest, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Pipe the churro dough into long strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Fry the torrejas for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil and fill with lemon zest mixture while still warm.
6. Drizzle with lavender honey and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cardamom Spiced Torrejas with Pistachio Crunch
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of Spain’s traditional breakfast treat, torreja, elevated by the sweet and spicy notes of cardamom and crunchy pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together bread, cardamom, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients; stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with chopped pistachios.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Caramel Torrejas with Walnuts
Torreja is a traditional Spanish dessert that combines the sweetness of bananas with the crunch of walnuts. This recipe adds a caramel twist, making it an irresistible treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Peel the bananas and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
4. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the banana slices and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until caramelized.
5. Remove the bananas from the skillet and sprinkle with salt and chopped walnuts.
6. Serve the torrejas warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rum Soaked Torrejas with Raisins
Torrejas are a traditional Spanish dessert that typically consists of sweet, soaked bread. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating raisins and rum for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dark rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes and raisins.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, rum, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture and stir until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional raisins if desired.
Cooking Time: None (soaking time)
Brown Sugar Glazed Torrejas with Pecans
Torrejas, a classic Spanish dessert, gets a delicious twist with the addition of brown sugar glaze and crunchy pecans. This sweet treat is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 torreja bread slices
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, and honey. Cook over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Brush the torreja bread slices with melted butter on both sides.
5. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the brown sugar glaze evenly over the bread slices.
7. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of each slice.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Torrejas with White Chocolate Sauce
Experience the perfect blend of Japanese and Spanish flavors with these crispy torrejas (Spanish-style churros) infused with the bright green tea flavor of matcha. Serve them warm with a rich white chocolate sauce for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate, for sauce
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add matcha powder and whisk until combined.
3. Gradually add milk and mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Pipe batter into long strips and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm with white chocolate sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Strawberry Stuffed Torrejas with Cream Cheese Filling
Torrejas are a traditional Spanish dessert that combines crispy fried dough with sweet and creamy fillings. This recipe adds a delicious twist by stuffing the torrejas with fresh strawberries and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine yeast, flour, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm milk and mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the batter into the oil and fry until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Meanwhile, mix together heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and sliced strawberries.
6. Once torrejas are fried, let them cool slightly before filling with the strawberry mixture.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (includes frying time).
Spiced Apple Torrejas with Cider Reduction
Spiced Apple Torrejas with Cider Reduction: A Delicious Autumn Treat
Torreja, a traditional Spanish dessert, gets a seasonal twist with the addition of warm spices and a rich cider reduction. This sweet treat is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 stale bread slices (preferably baguette)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Dip each bread slice into the melted butter, then coat with the spice mixture.
4. Place the coated bread slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, combine diced apples and apple cider in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the liquid is reduced by half (about 10-15 minutes).
6. Stir in honey until dissolved.
7. Serve warm torrejas with the cider reduction spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tiramisu Inspired Torrejas with Coffee Syrup
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these Italian-inspired torrejas, infused with the richness of tiramisu and a sweet coffee syrup.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together brewed coffee and sugar until dissolved.
2. Dip each tortilla into the coffee mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place coated tortillas on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle melted butter and vanilla extract over the tortillas.
5. Allow to cool and dry for at least 30 minutes.
6. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Peach Cobbler Torrejas with Cinnamon Sugar
A twist on traditional French toast, this sweet treat combines tender peaches and crispy cobbler topping with a crunchy cinnamon sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably day-old)
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– Cinnamon sugar (a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon) for topping
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Top each torreja with diced peaches, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top of each torreja.
7. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Churro Style Torrejas with Dulce de Leche
Torrejas are a traditional Spanish dessert, typically enjoyed during Lenten celebrations. These churro-style treats are drizzled with rich dulce de leche and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add milk to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough until elastic, about 5 minutes.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Pipe or drop dough into hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove torrejas from oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Drizzle warm dulce de leche over torrejas and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of sweet treats! This article presents 18 mouthwatering torrejas recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic cinnamon and vanilla bean flavors to unique twists like orange infused, pumpkin spice, and matcha green tea, there’s something for every palate. Each recipe is carefully crafted with delicious toppings and glazes, such as honey syrup, citrus glaze, and whipped cream. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Spanish desserts or looking for new ideas, these torrejas recipes are sure to delight.
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