Almojábanas
Sweet and cheesy Colombian cheese corn bread rolls, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup (approx. 150g) Masarepa (pre-cooked corn flour)(Ensure it's pre-cooked corn flour, not cornmeal or masa harina for tortillas.)
- 200g Queso fresco(Crumbled or grated. A mild, crumbly white cheese like farmer's cheese can be substituted if queso fresco is unavailable.)
- 2 Large eggs(Room temperature is ideal for better incorporation.)
- 50g (approx. 3.5 tbsp) Unsalted butter(Melted and slightly cooled.)
- 2 tbsp Granulated sugar(Adjust to taste; can be reduced for a less sweet roll.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Optional, enhances flavor, especially if the cheese is unsalted.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
In a large bowl, combine the masarepa, crumbled queso fresco, and optional salt. Mix well with a fork or your hands until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the corn flour.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted and slightly cooled butter, and sugar until combined.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix with a spatula or your hands until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 5
Lightly grease your hands with a little oil or butter. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1.5 inches (4 cm) in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the almojábanas are puffed up, firm to the touch, and have a beautiful golden-brown color. The edges should be slightly crisp.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 7
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Best served warm.
⏱️ N/A
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Almojábanas are best enjoyed fresh and warm, shortly after baking.
- ✓The combination of sweet sugar and savory cheese creates a delightful flavor profile.
- ✓These are a popular and traditional breakfast item in Colombia, often served with coffee.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For extra cheesy almojábanas, increase the amount of queso fresco or add a sprinkle of grated mozzarella.
- Reduce the sugar to 1 tbsp for a less sweet version, allowing the cheese flavor to be more prominent.