Casadinhos - Brazilian Delight

Ingredients

• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 125g (1 cup) cornstarch 125g (1 cup) cornstarch
• 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 2 egg yolks 2 egg yolks
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 200g (1 cup) dulce de leche 200g (1 cup) dulce de leche
• 50g (1/2 cup) desiccated coconut 50g (1/2 cup) desiccated coconut

Nutrition

• Calories: 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat: 8g (5g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 18g (6g sugars)
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch.
2. 2.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the egg yolks, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Remove the dough logs from the refrigerator and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
8. 8.
   Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. 9.
   Allow the biscuits to cool completely on a wire rack.
10. 10.
    Spread a teaspoon of dulce de leche onto the bottom side of one biscuit and sandwich it with another biscuit.
11. 11.
    Roll the edges of the filled biscuits in desiccated coconut to coat.
12. 12.
    Repeat with the remaining biscuits and filling.
13. 13.
    Serve and enjoy these delightful Casadinhos!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
• Dulce de leche — If you can't find dulce de leche, you can make your own by simmering a can of sweetened condensed milk for a few hours until it thickens and caramelizes.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced citrus flavor, you can add a little extra lemon zest to the dough.
• If you prefer a different filling, you can use chocolate ganache, strawberry jam, or any other sweet spread of your choice.
• Store the Casadinhos in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crispness.
• These cookies make a wonderful gift for friends and family during festive seasons.
• Experiment with different shapes for the biscuits, such as hearts or stars, to add a touch of creativity.

Serving advice

Serve the Casadinhos alongside a cup of freshly brewed Brazilian coffee or as a delightful addition to an afternoon tea spread. They are perfect for sharing and indulging in a moment of pure bliss.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Casadinhos on a decorative platter, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also place them in colorful cupcake liners to add a playful element to the presentation.