Fartons - Traditional Spanish Pastry Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. 3.
   Add the yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long, thin log shape, about 15cm (6 inches) in length.
8. 8.
   Place the shaped Fartons on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let the Fartons cool on a wire rack.
11. 11.
    Once cooled, dust the Fartons generously with powdered sugar.
12. 12.
    Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Orange zest — Make sure to use organic oranges and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any pesticide residue.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle some honey over the Fartons before serving.
• If you prefer a stronger citrus flavor, you can add a few drops of orange extract to the dough.
• To achieve a perfectly golden crust, brush the Fartons with a beaten egg before baking.
• Fartons are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• If you don't have powdered sugar, you can sprinkle the Fartons with granulated sugar instead.

Serving advice

Serve Fartons alongside a glass of chilled horchata for a classic Spanish treat. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Fartons on a platter, dusted with powdered sugar, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant presentation.