There’s something special about the aroma that fills the kitchen when making Golfeados. These delightful Venezuelan sweet rolls, drizzled with a sticky cane syrup and infused with the warm essence of cinnamon, transform any ordinary day into a sweet celebration. I stumbled upon this recipe during a family gathering and was instantly captivated by the way they brought everyone together, with that chewy texture outside and a tender, fluffy inside just begging to be drizzled with a little more syrup.
Perfect for brunch, dessert, or simply a cozy evening treat, Golfeados balance sweetness with rich, spiced flavors—making them a lovely addition to your culinary repertoire. As I gather the eggs, flour, and the all-important queso blanco, I can’t help but feel the excitement of sharing these traditional treats with friends and loved ones. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or satisfy a sweet craving on a quiet afternoon, these rolls are sure to win over hearts and palates alike. Get ready to dive into the world of Latin American desserts with this irresistible recipe!
Why are Golfeados so irresistibly delightful?
Delightful aroma: The sweet, warm scent of cinnamon wafts through your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Perfectly chewy: Each bite offers a satisfying contrast, with a chewy outer layer and a fluffy interior that keeps you coming back for more.
Versatile treat: Enjoy these Golfeados at brunch, as a dessert, or during cozy evenings with loved ones—you really can’t go wrong!
Sweet and spiced: The combination of cane syrup and spices adds depth, making them not just sweet but also richly flavored.
A crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or indulging solo, these rolls are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth!
Golfeados Ingredients
• Get ready to create delightful Venezuelan treats!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – A versatile base for a soft, fluffy dough that holds its shape beautifully.
- Active dry yeast – This helps the dough rise, giving your Golfeados that perfect texture.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dough and fuels the yeast for a lovely rise.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
- Milk – Adds moisture and richness, ensuring a tender treat.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the fluffiness of the rolls.
- Butter – Brings a rich flavor to the dough, resulting in a luxurious finish.
For the Filling
- Queso blanco – This mild cheese adds a delightful creaminess that contrasts with the sweetness.
- Cinnamon – Infuses your Golfeados with warm, comforting flavor—perfect for cozy gatherings.
For the Syrup
- Panela (or brown sugar) – Creates a sticky, sweet glaze that envelops the rolls, enhancing their sweetness.
- Water – Mixes with the sugar to dissolve it and form a pourable syrup.
- Vanilla extract – Optional, but it adds an additional layer of flavor to the syrup, making it even more irresistible.
There you go! Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to making your very own Golfeados that will bring a slice of Venezuela into your kitchen.
How to Make Golfeados
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Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk, allowing it to foam for about 5 minutes. Then, add this mixture to the dry ingredients along with melted butter and eggs. Stir until a dough forms.
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Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You want it to feel soft and slightly tacky, but not overly sticky.
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Let it rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
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Prepare the filling: While the dough is rising, mix the crumbled queso blanco and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside this delightful filling that turns the Golfeados into a creamy treat.
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Shape the rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Sprinkle the queso blanco-cinnamon mixture evenly across the dough. Roll it up tightly from the long side and cut into slices.
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Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the panela (or brown sugar) and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add vanilla extract if using.
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Bake: Place the Golfeados in a greased baking dish and pour half of the syrup over them. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
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Drizzle with syrup: Once out of the oven, pour the remaining syrup over the warm Golfeados and let them soak in the sweetness for a few minutes before serving.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Golfeados Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to put your own spin on these already delightful Venezuelan treats and create a version that’s uniquely yours!
- Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella or ricotta for a creamier filling, offering a different texture and flavor profile.
- Flavor Boost: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet surprise that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and syrup.
- Cinnamon Alternatives: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom to infuse a unique twist into the dough.
- Syrup Infusion: Substitute panela with coconut sugar in the syrup for a tropical influence that complements the rolls perfectly.
- Fruit Filling: Incorporate fresh mango or guava cubes alongside the cheese for an exciting fruity flavor explosion.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing enjoyment.
- Coconut Flavored: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical touch that enhances the overall sweetness and flavor depth.
- Mini Golfeados: Shape smaller versions for bite-sized treats, perfect for parties or sweet snacks!
With these variations, you’re set to explore new flavor dimensions while keeping the essence of Golfeados intact. Enjoy the journey!
Expert Tips for Golfeados
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Perfect Rising: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal fluffiness. Mistakes happen when skipping this crucial step.
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Knead Well: Make sure to knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Insufficient kneading can result in tough rolls instead of tender Golfeados.
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Watch the Syrup: Don’t overcook the syrup; it should be pourable but sticky once cooled. A common error is allowing it to harden too much.
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Use Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh queso blanco for the best flavor and texture contrast in your Golfeados. Avoid processed options that can be too salty.
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Store Properly: To keep Golfeados fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigeration can make them dry out.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a hint of vanilla or nutmeg to the filling for an exciting twist that enhances the overall experience of these delightful Golfeados.
What to Serve with Golfeados?
Transform your Golfeados into a complete feast by pairing them with these delightful accompaniments!
- Rich Hot Chocolate: A velvety, spiced hot chocolate complements the sweetness of the rolls, providing a cozy, comforting flavor experience.
- Fresh Fruits: Serve with sliced tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for a refreshing contrast to the rich, sticky dough.
- Creamy Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that enhances the decadence of your sweet rolls, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Cinnamon Coffee: Sipping on a warm cup of cinnamon-infused coffee elevates the Golfeados, matching their cinnamon notes with aromatic comfort.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, including a mild queso blanco, offers a savory balance to the sweet flavors, creating a delightful contrast that excites the palate.
- Custard Sauce: Drizzling a creamy custard sauce over the rolls brings an extra layer of richness to your Golfeados, luscious with every bite.
- Coconut Ice Cream: This tropical treat pairs beautifully with the spiced flavor of the rolls, providing a cool finish that refreshes the senses.
- Chai Latte: The spiced richness of a chai latte complements the cinnamon goodness in Golfeados, making for a wonderfully warm pairing!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Golfeados are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply mixing it, kneading it, and then letting it rise. After the initial rise, punch down the dough, shape the rolls, and place them in your greased baking dish, covered tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerated. This allows the flavors to deepen while preventing the dough from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes and pour half of the syrup over before baking as instructed. This way, you’ll have warm, gooey Golfeados ready in no time, perfect for brunch or dessert!
How to Store and Freeze Golfeados
Room Temperature: Store Golfeados in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Refrigerator: If needed, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just be aware that they may lose some of their fluffiness and become a bit drier.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap Golfeados individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen Golfeados, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then warm them gently in the oven or microwave. They’ll be just as delightful as when freshly baked!
Golfeados Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right queso blanco for my Golfeados?
Choosing the right queso blanco is key to achieving the perfect blend of flavors. Look for fresh cheese that is creamy and slightly crumbly but not too dry. It should have a mild taste, allowing it to complement the sweetness of the rolls. If you cannot find queso blanco, you might consider substituting it with ricotta or farmer’s cheese for a similar texture, though the flavor will vary slightly.
What’s the best way to store Golfeados, and how long do they last?
To store Golfeados, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain their soft texture and keeps the flavors fresh. If you need to store them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; however, they may become slightly drier. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend enjoying them fresh.
Can I freeze Golfeados for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! To freeze Golfeados, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to squeeze out any excess air. They can be safely frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to savor them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them gently in the oven or microwave for that fresh-baked taste.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough isn’t rising as expected, first check that your yeast is active—there’s nothing worse than old yeast! You can test its potency by adding it to warm milk with a bit of sugar; if it froths after about 5 minutes, you’re in good shape. If the dough is still slow to rise, try moving it to a warmer spot, away from drafts, and give it a little more time (sometimes even an extra hour can work wonders!).
How can I adjust the sweetness of the Golfeados?
If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can reduce the sugar in the dough mixture by about 25%. Additionally, when preparing the syrup, feel free to decrease the amount of panela or brown sugar based on your taste. The delightful balance of sweetness can be quite personal, so experimenting until you find your sweet spot is encouraged!
Are Golfeados suitable for people with food allergies?
Golfeados contain common allergens such as wheat (in the flour), dairy (in the milk and cheese), and eggs. For those with allergies, consider using a gluten-free flour blend and a dairy-free cheese alternative to modify the recipe. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety for your specific dietary needs. Enjoying Latin American treats like this can be a delicious adventure even for those with restrictions!
Sweet Golfeados: Discover the Irresistible Venezuelan Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk and allow it to foam for about 5 minutes.
- Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients along with melted butter and eggs. Stir until a dough forms.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, mix the crumbled queso blanco and cinnamon in a bowl for the filling.
- After rising, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Sprinkle the filling evenly and roll up tightly, then cut into slices.
- In a small saucepan, combine panela and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Place the Golfeados in a greased baking dish, pour half of the syrup over them, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
- Once out of the oven, pour the remaining syrup over the warm Golfeados and let soak before serving.
