Desserts > Pastry > Latin American > Cuban

Chocolate and Coconut Pastelito Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut

Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Baking sheet

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips and coconut.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Cut out circles with a 3-inch cookie cutter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Brush the tops of the pastelitos with melted butter.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Let cool before serving.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes 12 pastelitos

Nutritional Information: Not available

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Coconut can be substituted with chopped nuts or dried fruit.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips can be substituted with dark or white chocolate chips.

Variations:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough for a hint of spice.
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dough for a richer chocolate flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to roll out the dough evenly to ensure even baking.
- Use a cookie cutter to cut out the circles for a uniform shape.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the pastelitos on a platter with fresh fruit and a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.

Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it is no longer sticky.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling the dough.
- Make sure to use a clean surface and utensils when preparing the dough.

Food History:
Pastelitos are a traditional Latin American pastry that have been around for centuries. They are typically filled with sweet or savory fillings and served as a snack or dessert.

Flavor Profiles:
The combination of chocolate and coconut in this recipe creates a sweet and nutty flavor that is sure to please.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a snack or dessert with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: N/A

Taste: Sweet, Chocolatey, Coconutty, Rich