Macheteadas - Honduran Sweet Bread

Ingredients

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 34g, 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, 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, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract 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.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions. Roll each portion into a long rope and twist it into a loose knot.
7. 7.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F).
8. 8.
   Carefully place the twisted dough knots into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
9. 9.
   Remove the Macheteadas from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
10. 10.
    Dust the warm Macheteadas generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Flour — Use all-purpose flour for the best texture and rise.
• Active dry yeast — Make sure the yeast is fresh and activate it in warm milk to ensure proper fermentation.
• Vegetable oil — Choose a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point for frying.
• Powdered sugar — Dust the Macheteadas with powdered sugar while they are still warm to allow it to stick to the surface.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist of flavor, add a teaspoon of grated orange zest to the dough.
• Serve Macheteadas warm with a cup of hot chocolate for a delightful combination.
• If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the dough.
• Experiment with different shapes and sizes to create your own unique Macheteadas.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve Macheteadas as a delicious breakfast treat or enjoy them as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea. They are best served warm and dusted with powdered sugar.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown Macheteadas on a platter and sprinkle them generously with powdered sugar. Serve them alongside a warm beverage to enhance the visual appeal.