Imagine sinking your teeth into a pillowy-soft, golden-brown roll that melts in your mouth with a hint of sweetness and vanilla – that's the irresistible allure of Mallorca Bread! This Puerto Rican delicacy isn't just a bread; it's a slice of Caribbean comfort that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with every single bite. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned home chef, this recipe promises to turn your kitchen into a warm, fragrant haven of deliciousness that will have everyone begging for more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Serves: 12 rolls
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix the dry ingredients together until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve 1 packet of active dry yeast in 1 cup of warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C). Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients along with 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Mix the ingredients together using a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it is manageable.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can knead it in the stand mixer for the same amount of time.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a ball by rolling it between your palms. Place the shaped rolls onto a greased baking sheet, leaving enough space between them to allow for rising.
- Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes or until they have doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your freshly baked Mallorca bread!
Tips
- Yeast Temperature Matters: Ensure your milk is precisely warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast without killing it. Too hot, and you'll destroy the yeast; too cold, and it won't activate properly.
- Kneading Technique: When kneading, use the heel of your hand to push and fold the dough. This develops gluten and creates that signature soft, elastic texture.
- Rising Environment: Find a warm, draft-free spot for your dough to rise. A turned-off oven with the light on or near a warm window works perfectly.
- Don't Rush the Process: Patience is key with Mallorca Bread. Allow sufficient time for rising to develop rich flavors and perfect texture.
- Optional Finishing Touch: For an authentic look, dust your cooled rolls with powdered sugar before serving for a classic Puerto Rican presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
