Torticas de Morón Recipe
Introduction
Torticas de Morón are delightful, crumbly cookies bursting with bright lime zest flavor. These traditional treats are simple to make and perfect for enjoying with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (185 grams) vegetable shortening
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 3 limes (about 1½ tablespoons lime zest)
- 3 cups (385 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, use a wooden spoon to combine the vegetable shortening and sugar until well incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine, then mix in the lime zest until evenly distributed.
- Step 2: Gradually add the flour and kosher salt in three batches. Use your hands to mix and press the ingredients together between each addition until all the flour is absorbed and the dough forms a cohesive ball. If the dough feels dry and doesn’t come together, add a splash of lime juice or water to help bind it.
- Step 3: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Clear part of your work surface and lay down a 2-foot-long piece of plastic wrap.
- Step 4: Place the dough in the center of the plastic wrap. Use the long sides of the wrap to roll and shape the dough into a 2-inch diameter log. Wrap it tightly so it forms a compact, circular shape. Let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Step 5: Unwrap the dough and, using a sharp knife, cut it into ½-inch slices. If the slices crumble, gently press them back together and smooth the edges with your fingers to form rounds. Arrange the slices on a nonstick or parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet.
- Step 6: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the centers are firm and the bottoms turn light golden brown. Let cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a more intense lime flavor, add a tablespoon of fresh lime juice to the dough.
- Try substituting vegetable shortening with butter for a richer taste, though the texture may be less crumbly.
- If you prefer, add a pinch of ground cinnamon for a warm spice note.
Storage
Store torticas de Morón in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To refresh their texture, warm them briefly in a low oven before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use butter instead of vegetable shortening?
Yes, butter can be used, but it will make the cookies less crumbly and a bit softer. Use the same amount and chill the dough if it becomes too soft.
What if the dough is too dry or crumbly?
If the dough doesn’t come together, add a small amount of lime juice or water, a teaspoon at a time, until it binds well without becoming sticky.
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Torticas de Morón Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Torticas de Morón are traditional Argentine cookies known for their tender crumb and refreshing lime zest. These simple yet flavorful cookies combine vegetable shortening, sugar, and lime zest into a dough that is rolled, sliced, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect served alongside coffee or tea, they offer a delightful balance of sweetness and citrus aroma, making them a beloved treat in Argentine cuisine.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups / 385 grams all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)
- 1 cup / 200 grams granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup / 185 grams vegetable shortening
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 3 limes (about 1½ tablespoons lime zest)
Instructions
- Combine shortening and sugar: In a large bowl, use a wooden spoon to mix the vegetable shortening and granulated sugar until well incorporated and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and continue stirring until combined. Then, fold in the lime zest evenly throughout the mixture.
- Add flour and salt: Gradually incorporate the flour and kosher salt in three additions. Use your hands to mix and press the ingredients together between each addition until all the flour is absorbed and the dough forms a cohesive mass. If it feels too dry and doesn’t come together, add a splash of lime juice or water to help bind the dough.
- Preheat oven and prepare workspace: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius). Clear part of your work surface and lay down a 2-foot-long piece of plastic wrap to help with shaping the dough.
- Shape dough log: Transfer the dough to the center of the plastic wrap. Shape it into a compact log about 2 inches in diameter by rolling and squishing it using the plastic wrap. Wrap it tightly to form a firm circular log and let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes. This resting period helps relax the dough for easier slicing.
- Slice and bake: Unwrap the dough and carefully slice it into ½-inch thick slices using a sharp knife. If slices crumble, gently press or smooth edges to form neat rounds. Place the slices spaced on a nonstick baking sheet or one lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the centers are firm and the bottoms turn a light golden brown.
- Cool and store: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Using vegetable shortening yields a tender, crumbly texture unique to these cookies.
- If dough feels crumbly or dry, add lime juice or a little water sparingly to help it come together.
- Resting the dough log before slicing prevents the cookies from crumbling apart during cutting.
- Cut slices evenly for consistent baking and texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve their crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Argentine
Keywords: Torticas de Morón, Argentine cookies, lime zest cookies, traditional Argentine dessert, crispy lime cookies
