Are you looking for a sweet treat to impress your friends and family? Look no further than torrejas, the classic Spanish dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. From breakfast to brunch, or even as a snack or dessert, these delicious fried dough pastries can be flavored and topped in countless ways.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering torrejas recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic cinnamon and honey syrup to more adventurous flavor combinations like orange and vanilla infused, guava glazed with cream cheese filling, and even tiramisu inspired with coffee syrup, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, these torrejas recipes offer endless possibilities for creativity and experimentation in the kitchen. So let’s get started and discover the many delicious ways to enjoy this beloved Spanish treat!
Classic Cinnamon Torrejas with Honey Syrup
Classic Cinnamon Torrejas with Honey Syrup
Torrejas are a traditional Spanish dessert that consists of deep-fried dough balls coated in cinnamon and sugar, typically served with a sweet syrup. This recipe yields crispy on the outside, soft on the inside torrejas that pair perfectly with a drizzle of warm honey syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioner’s sugar and cinnamon for dusting
– Honey Syrup (see below)
Honey Syrup:
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry dough balls (about 1-inch in diameter) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
8. Dust warm torrejas with confectioner’s sugar and cinnamon.
9. Serve with Honey Syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange and Vanilla Infused Torrejas
Experience the sweet and tangy fusion of orange and vanilla in this delightful dessert recipe. Torrejas are traditional Mexican breakfast treats that can be enjoyed at any time of day, elevated by the added flavors of citrus and creamy vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bread, sugar, and cinnamon. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture and stir until bread is fully saturated.
4. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Remove torrejas from refrigerator and gently fold the mixture to redistribute.
7. Pour torreja mixture into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guava Glazed Torrejas with Cream Cheese Filling
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of guava glaze paired with creamy cream cheese filling, wrapped in crispy torreja pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed guava fruit (about 2-3 guavas)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the pastry in half lengthwise, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush guava glaze (made by mixing crushed guavas with honey) onto the top and bottom of the torreja.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush egg wash over the top for golden brown finish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk Torrejas with Caramel Drizzle
Savor the sweet and creamy combination of coconut milk torrejas, crispy tortillas soaked in a rich coconut milk mixture, served with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Caramel sauce for serving (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together coconut milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Dip each tortilla into the coconut mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook coated tortillas for 30-45 seconds on each side, or until crispy and slightly puffed.
4. Remove torrejas from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Drizzle with melted butter and serve warm with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Torrejas with Maple Glaze
Elevate your breakfast game with these sweet and savory Pumpkin Spice Torrejas, topped with a rich Maple Glaze. This fall-inspired treat is perfect for a cozy morning or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of corn tortillas (8-10 count)
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– Maple glaze ingredients: 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Dip each tortilla into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook torrejas for 30-45 seconds on each side, until crispy and golden.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and heavy cream to create the glaze.
5. Drizzle the warm torrejas with the Maple Glaze and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Almond Crusted Torrejas with Berry Compote
Torreja, a traditional Spanish dessert, gets a delicious twist with an almond crust and a sweet-tart berry compote. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 1 cup almonds, sliced
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Berry Compote (recipe below)
Berry Compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier or orange liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together almonds, sugar, and salt.
3. Brush both sides of tortillas with melted butter.
4. Coat each tortilla with the almond mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tortillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with Berry Compote.
Berry Compote:
1. In a saucepan, combine berries and sugar.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
3. Add Grand Marnier or orange liqueur, if using.
4. Simmer for an additional minute.
Chocolate Dipped Torrejas with Whipped Cream
Torrejas are a classic Spanish dessert that gets an upgrade with the addition of rich chocolate and fluffy whipped cream. These indulgent treats are perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of torrejas (Spanish-style shredded wheat cakes)
– 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Dip each torreja into the melted chocolate, coating about half of the cake.
3. Place the chocolate-dipped torrejas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top each torreja with a dollop of whipped cream.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Lemon Zest Torrejas with Powdered Sugar
Brighten up your morning with these citrusy and sweet treats. These Lemon Zest Torrejas are a twist on traditional French toast, infused with the warmth of lemon zest and topped with powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bread (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Zest of 1 lemon, finely chopped
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
- Add the chopped lemon zest to the egg mixture and whisk until combined.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Cook the torrejas in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rum Soaked Torrejas with Raisins
Torrejas are a traditional Spanish dessert that typically consist of sweet bread soaked in rum syrup. This recipe adds an extra layer of sweetness and chewiness with the addition of raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed French toast (preferably stale)
– 1/2 cup dark rum
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed French toast and raisins.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine the rum, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the rum syrup over the French toast mixture and toss to coat.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
5. Just before serving, stir in the melted butter.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional raisins if desired.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (depending on soaking time)
Banana Bread Torrejas with Nutella Drizzle
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these moist and delicious banana bread torrejas, topped with a rich Nutella drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Nutella, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices (torrejas).
8. Drizzle with Nutella and dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Torrejas
These sweet and fluffy torrejas are a twist on the classic shortcake, infused with the freshness of strawberries and cream. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a delightful brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, lukewarm
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add lukewarm heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into squares.
7. Serve warm with sliced strawberries and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tiramisu Inspired Torrejas with Coffee Syrup
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these crispy and creamy Tiramisu-inspired torrejas, infused with the rich flavor of coffee syrup.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Dip each tortilla into the whipped cream mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place coated tortillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle melted butter and coffee syrup over the torrejas.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Apple Torrejas with Cinnamon Sugar
Discover the sweet harmony of crispy tortillas, caramelized apples, and cinnamon sugar in this delightful dessert. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion, these torrejas are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 corn tortillas
– 1 large apple, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the torrejas by spreading a spoonful of melted butter on each tortilla, then topping with a few slices of caramelized apple.
5. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar (a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon) to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Torrejas
Transform classic PB&J into a decadent dessert with our Peanut Butter and Jelly Torrejas recipe. Crunchy torreja shells filled with creamy peanut butter, sweet jelly, and crispy bacon – it’s a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 12-16 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup grape or strawberry jelly
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tortillas into quarters and fry them in hot oil until crispy.
3. Drain the torrejas on paper towels and set aside.
4. In a bowl, mix together peanut butter and jelly until smooth.
5. Stuff each torreja with about 1 tablespoon of the PB&J mixture.
6. Top each torreja with crumbled bacon.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (tortilla frying) + assembly time
Enjoy your Peanut Butter and Jelly Torrejas!
Pineapple Glazed Torrejas with Toasted Coconut
A sweet and tropical twist on traditional torrejas, these crispy cornmeal fritters are glazed with a pineapple-infused syrup and topped with toasted coconut flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Pineapple glaze (see below)
– Toasted coconut flakes
Pineapple Glaze:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into the hot oil.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
7. In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, sugar, and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Brush warm torrejas with pineapple glaze and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Velvet Torrejas with Cream Cheese Frosting
Experience the delight of traditional Spanish torrijas reimagined in a rich red velvet flavor profile, paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting. These sweet treats are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add red food coloring and mix well.
5. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add flour mixture and buttermilk; mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar (as needed)
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar to taste.
Savory Cheese Stuffed Torrejas with Herbs
Torrejas are a delicious Spanish twist on French toast, and this recipe adds an extra layer of flavor with savory cheese and herbs. Perfect as a breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego or Cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt.
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 in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. While the torrejas are cooking, mix together cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Once the torrejas are cooked, spread a slice of each with the cheese mixture.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spiced Chai Torrejas with Honey Glaze
Warm up with these aromatic and sweet Mexican-inspired treats, infused with the comforting spices of chai tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey glaze (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small balls of batter into the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain torrejas on paper towels and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Honey Glaze:
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon powdered milk
Mix together honey and powdered milk until smooth. Drizzle over warm torrejas.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for a delicious dessert to impress your guests? Look no further! This article features 18 mouthwatering torrejas recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic cinnamon and honey syrup to creative flavor combinations like guava glazed with cream cheese filling, there’s something for everyone. Try orange and vanilla infused torrejas or rum soaked torrejas with raisins for a twist on the traditional dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family.
