Country: Argentina Servings: Serves 8

Ingredients

• all-purpose flour – 3 cups / 375 g
• unsalted butter – 1 cup / 227 g, cold and diced
• warm milk – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
• active dry yeast – 2 1/4 tsp / 7 g
• sugar – 2 tbsp / 25 g
• salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
• egg – 1, beaten
• vanilla extract – 1 tsp / 5 ml
• egg yolk – 1, for glazing

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm milk. Set aside for 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the diced cold butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into 3-inch circles.
6. Arrange circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush with egg yolk for glazing.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Substitutions

• all-purpose flour -> gluten-free flour blend
• unsalted butter -> vegan margarine

Enhancements in the Next Evolution

• Enhance the flavor by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
• Experiment with different fillings such as dulce de leche or fruit preserves.
• Incorporate whole wheat flour for a healthier variant.