Puerto Rican Vegan Sesame-Coconut Shortbreads: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, there’s a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions that make every dish a celebration. Today, we’re going to give a classic shortbread recipe a vibrant Puerto Rican vegan twist, blending the island’s iconic flavors with the simplicity and elegance of shortbread cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup vegan butter (such as VioLife’s unsalted vegan butter), softened
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon guava paste or marmalade (optional, for an extra layer of flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the vegan butter, coconut oil, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the sesame seeds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The sesame seeds will add a delightful nutty flavor, while the vanilla will provide a subtle sweetness.
- Blend in Flour and Coconut: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and shredded coconut to the mixture. Mix until the dough is well combined and slightly chunky.
- Form the Cookies: Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place these balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
- Optional Guava Touch: If you’re feeling extra festive, create a small indent in each cookie and fill it with a tiny cube of guava paste or marmalade. This adds a sweet and tangy surprise to your shortbreads.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops remain pale.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
The Cultural Significance
These shortbreads are more than just a delicious treat; they embody the cultural richness of Puerto Rico. The use of sesame seeds and coconut reflects the island’s African and Spanish influences, while the guava paste adds a touch of the island’s indigenous and tropical flavors.
Tips for Making it Extra Special
- Use Local Ingredients: If you’re in Puerto Rico, consider using locally sourced ingredients like fresh coconut and guava paste for the most authentic flavors.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a hint of almond extract or a sprinkle of sea salt to give your shortbreads an extra layer of flavor.
Why These Shortbreads Stand Out
These vegan shortbreads are not only a delight to the taste buds but also a testament to the versatility and richness of Puerto Rican cuisine. By using vegan butter and coconut oil, we ensure that everyone can enjoy these cookies, regardless of dietary preferences. The addition of guava paste or marmalade gives them a unique and festive touch, perfect for any occasion.
In Puerto Rico, food is more than just sustenance; it’s a way to connect with family, culture, and tradition. These shortbreads are a delicious way to experience that connection, and we hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as we do. ¡Buen provecho