Hojaldre

Crispy, golden, and delightfully puffy, Hojaldre is a classic fried bread that’s beloved for its simplicity and versatility. Made with a handful of pantry staples like all-purpose flour, baking powder, and butter, this easy-to-make recipe yields a soft dough that transforms into irresistibly light and flaky discs when fried to perfection. The secret to its airy texture lies in letting the dough rest before rolling it into thin rounds. Ideal as a comforting breakfast or snack, hojaldres are often served warm with savory accompaniments like cheese, eggs, or meats, but they’re just as delicious enjoyed plain. Perfectly indulgent and ready in just 30 minutes, this traditional Panamanian treat will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 43/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter (cold, cubed)
• 0.75 cups warm water
• 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

Step 2

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to crumble the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse sand.

Step 3

Slowly add the warm water to the mixture, a little at a time, and mix until it forms a soft, cohesive dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour; if too dry, add a bit more water.

Step 4

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 5

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Step 6

After resting, divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then use your hands or a rolling pin to flatten into discs about 1/4-inch thick.

Step 7

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium heat. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C). To test, drop a small piece of dough in the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, it's ready.

Step 8

Carefully place one disc of dough into the hot oil. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the hojaldre and place it onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 9

Repeat with the remaining dough discs, frying them one at a time.

Step 10

Serve warm as is, or pair with cheese, eggs, or your favorite breakfast sides. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1414.5 grams (1414.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	9241

Total Fat 971.40g	1245%
Saturated Fat 150.10g	751%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 1637mg	71%
Total Carbohydrate 197.80g	72%
Dietary Fiber 6.50g	23%
Total Sugars 13.10g
Protein 25.00g	50%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 39mg	3%
Iron 11mg	62%
Potassium 264mg	6%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 90.7%

Protein: 1.0%

Carbs: 8.2%