Introduction

Embark on a journey to Portugal’s sweet side with Cavacas de Santa Maria, a delightful treat that has captivated locals and visitors alike for generations. These airy and sugary pastries hail from the town of Santa Maria da Feira, and their unique texture and sweetness make them a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. In this blog post, we’ll uncover the secrets to creating Cavacas de Santa Maria, ensuring your kitchen is filled with the heavenly aroma of these pillowy delights.

Who is this Recipe For?

Cavacas de Santa Maria are for those who appreciate the joy of indulging in light, sugary confections. Whether you’re a seasoned baker eager to expand your international dessert repertoire or a home cook looking for a delightful and unique treat, this recipe is your ticket to a taste of Portuguese sweetness.

Why Cavacas de Santa Maria are a Culinary Delight

These pastries stand out for their distinctive texture and flavor. Cavacas are known for their light, airy interior and a crispy, sugary crust that shatters with each bite. They strike the perfect balance between sweetness and subtlety, making them a delightful accompaniment to your morning coffee or an elegant addition to your dessert table.

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Sugar Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start creating your Cavacas de Santa Maria, ensure you have the following kitchen equipment:

• Saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Piping bag or plastic bag with the corner snipped off
• Baking sheets
• Cooling rack

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil. Add the flour and stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs

Let the mixture cool slightly. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and shiny.

Step 3: Pipe and Bake

Transfer the dough into a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe small mounds onto the baking sheets. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Step 4: Make the Sugar Glaze

While the pastries are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, water, and vanilla extract to create the sugar glaze.

Step 5: Glaze and Enjoy

Once the pastries are cooled, dip the tops into the sugar glaze. Allow the glaze to set, and your Cavacas de Santa Maria are ready to be enjoyed.

FAQ

Can I store Cavacas?

Cavacas are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. Be cautious as the sugar glaze may lose some of its crispiness over time.

Can I flavor the sugar glaze?

Certainly! Experiment with different extracts like almond or citrus to add a unique twist to the sugar glaze.

Can I freeze the dough?

Freezing the dough is not recommended as the texture may be affected. It’s best to bake the pastries fresh for the perfect Cavacas experience.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cavacas de Santa Maria as a sweet breakfast treat or as a light dessert after a meal. Pair them with a cup of Portuguese coffee for an authentic experience.

Conclusion

Elevate your baking skills with the enchanting Cavacas de Santa Maria. Share these delightful pastries with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more international sweets that bring the world of flavors to your kitchen.