Bolos de São Gonçalo

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 12g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into intricate patterns, such as crowns or flowers.
6. 6.
   Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the Bolos de São Gonçalo cool completely.
8. 8.
   Dust the cooled cakes with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemon zest — Make sure to use organic lemons and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any pesticide residue.
• All-purpose flour — Sift the flour before measuring to ensure a lighter texture in the final product.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced citrus flavor, add a few drops of lemon juice to the dough.
• If you prefer a spicier taste, increase the amount of ground cinnamon.
• To achieve a crispy exterior, brush the shaped dough with melted butter before baking.
• Serve Bolos de São Gonçalo warm for a delightful contrast of textures.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve Bolos de São Gonçalo as a sweet treat alongside a cup of Portuguese coffee or tea. These cakes are perfect for afternoon tea parties or as a dessert after a traditional Portuguese meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Bolos de São Gonçalo on a decorative platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a twist of lemon zest for an elegant touch.