Introduction

Regañadas cookies are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a delicious and comforting dessert. They’re simple to prepare, but require attention to detail to achieve their characteristic crunchy texture and balanced flavor. These cookies are ideal for sharing with family, giving as gifts, or enjoying when you have a sweet tooth.

Regañadas cookies are a traditional sweet treat that combines a crunchy texture with a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor. These cookies are popular in many regions of Latin America, especially Mexico, where they are enjoyed as a dessert or as an accompaniment to coffee or tea. Their name comes from their characteristic “regañada” or wrinkled shape, achieved by flattening them with a fork before baking. Below, we present a detailed analysis of their preparation, history, and tips for achieving the best results.

Regañadas cookies are a traditional sweet treat that has won the hearts of many generations thanks to their crunchy texture, slightly sweet flavor, and unique appearance. These cookies, known for their characteristic “regañado” or wrinkled design, are a classic in homemade baking, especially in countries like Mexico, where they are enjoyed as a dessert or as an accompaniment to coffee, tea, or even a glass of hot milk.

The name “regañadas” comes from the technique used to shape them: they are flattened with a fork before baking, creating a wrinkled design that makes them visually appealing and gives them a unique crunchy texture. This process not only gives them their distinctive appearance but also allows them to bake evenly, ensuring they are golden brown on the outside and slightly tender on the inside.

These cookies are a perfect example of how the simplest ingredients—flour, sugar, eggs, and butter—can be transformed into a delicious and comforting dessert. They’re easy to prepare and don’t require any special tools, making them an ideal choice for baking beginners or those looking for a quick and satisfying treat.

In addition to their flavor and texture, regañadas cookies have a strong connection to tradition and culture. In many families, their preparation is an activity passed down from generation to generation, becoming a symbol of unity and affection. Whether for a special celebration or an everyday moment, these cookies have the power to evoke memories and create new ones.

In short, regañadas cookies are much more than a simple dessert: they’re an expression of traditional baking, a link to our roots, and an opportunity to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Make them at home and discover why they’re so beloved around the world!

History of the Scolding Cookies

Regañadas cookies have their roots in traditional Mexican pastries, where they have been prepared for generations. Their name refers to the technique of “regañar” (shriveling) the dough with a fork before baking, which gives them their characteristic appearance. Originally, they were made with lard, a common ingredient in traditional cooking, which provides a unique texture and unparalleled flavor. Over time, versions with vegetable shortening or butter have been adapted, but the traditional flavor remains the most appreciated.

These cookies are a classic at parties and celebrations, and making them at home is a family-friendly activity. Plus, their versatility allows you to customize them with spices like cinnamon or vanilla, or even add a touch of lemon or orange zest for a modern twist.

Regañadas cookies are a traditional sweet that has been a staple of home baking in several countries, especially in Mexico, where they have become an iconic dessert. Their history is linked to the evolution of traditional pastries, where simple ingredients and accessible techniques gave rise to delicious and memorable creations. Below, we explore the origins and evolution of these cookies, which have captivated palates for generations.

Origins in Traditional Pastry

Regañada cookies have their roots in traditional Mexican pastries, although their influence extends to other Latin American and European countries. Their name comes from the technique of “regañar,” or wrinkling the dough with a fork before baking, which gives them their characteristic appearance. This method is not only practical but also gives the cookies a crunchy texture and unique design.

Originally, these cookies were made with basic ingredients available to families: flour, sugar, eggs, and lard. Lard was a common ingredient in traditional cooking because it was inexpensive and provided an unparalleled texture and flavor. Over time, versions with vegetable shortening or butter were adapted, but the authentic flavor remains the most appreciated.

Evolution and Popularization

Regañadas cookies became popular in Mexico during the 20th century, especially in rural areas, where families prepared these sweets for celebrations, patron saint festivals, or simply as an everyday dessert. Making them was a family activity in which everyone participated, from the youngest to the oldest, making them a symbol of unity and tradition.

Over time, regañadas cookies transcended the borders of rural communities and reached cities, where they adapted to urban tastes. In bakeries and pastry shops, they began to be offered as an affordable and delicious option to accompany coffee or tea. Furthermore, their versatility allowed for experimentation with new flavors, such as cinnamon, vanilla, or even citrus zest.

Cultural Significance

Regañadas cookies aren’t just a dessert; they’re a reflection of the culture and culinary traditions of the communities where they’re made. In Mexico, for example, they’re a common staple at children’s parties, Christmas parties, and family celebrations. Their homemade preparation is passed down from generation to generation, becoming a link between the past and the present.

Furthermore, these cookies embody the creativity and ingenuity of traditional baking, where simple ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary. Their “scratched” design is not only functional but also gives them an artisanal touch that makes them unique.

Cookies Scolded Today

Today, regañadas cookies remain a beloved and appreciated dessert in many homes. Although their preparation has been simplified with the use of modern ingredients, many people still prefer the traditional recipe, made with lard and kneaded by hand. Furthermore, with the rise of home baking and social media, these cookies have gained renewed popularity, inspiring both amateur and professional bakers to experiment with new versions.

Nowadays, it’s common to find variations on regañadas cookies, such as those that include chocolate, nuts, or spices. However, the essence of this dessert remains the same: a simple sweet treat, yet full of flavor and tradition.

The history of regañadas cookies is a journey through time and cultures, showing how a humble dessert can become an icon of traditional pastry. From their origins in family kitchens to their popularization in bakeries and pastry shops, these cookies have proven to be a timeless dessert that continues to win over palates. Whether for a special celebration or an everyday moment, regañadas cookies are an expression of affection, tradition, and culinary creativity. A true treasure of the pastry world!

Detailed Preparation

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups of flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 250 g of shortening (vegetable or butter)

Instructions:

  1. Preparation of the dough:
    • In a large bowl, form a volcano with the flour, sugar, salt and baking powder.
    • In the center of the volcano, add the eggs and the butter (or lard).
    • Mix the ingredients with your hands until you have a firm, smooth dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
  2. Refrigeration:
    • Wrap the dough in plastic or place it in a covered bowl.
    • Refrigerate for 30 minutes to make the dough more manageable.
  3. Forming the cookies:
    • Preheat the oven to 180°C.
    • Form the dough into walnut-sized balls.
    • Place the balls on a previously greased and floured baking sheet.
    • Slightly flatten each ball with a fork, pressing down to create the characteristic “scolded” design.
  4. Baked:
    • Bake the cookies for 20 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges.
    • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
  5. Final finish:
    • While the cookies are still warm, roll them in a cinnamon and sugar mixture to help them stick together.
    • Let cool completely before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use butter instead of shortening?
    • Yes, you can use butter, although the traditional flavor is achieved with lard or vegetable shortening. Butter will give it a softer, more buttery touch.
  2. How do I prevent cookies from being too hard?
    • Make sure you don’t bake them too long. 20 minutes is usually enough. Also, don’t add too much flour, as this can make the dough tough.
  3. Can I add other flavors?
    • Of course! You can add lemon or orange zest, or spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a personalized touch.
  4. How do I store scolded cookies?
    • Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last up to a week if stored properly.

Tips for Success

  • Lard vs. Butter: If you’re looking for an authentic flavor, use lard. If you prefer a milder flavor, butter is a good option.
  • Refrigeration: Don’t skip the refrigeration step, as this makes it easier to shape the cookies.
  • “Scolded” design: Press firmly with the fork to create a well-defined design, but do not flatten the cookies too much.
  • Cinnamon Sugar: Make sure the cookies are warm when you toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture so they adhere well.

Regañadas cookies are much more than a simple dessert; they are an expression of tradition, creativity, and affection passed down from generation to generation. Throughout their history, these cookies have proven to be an icon of homemade baking, especially in countries like Mexico, where they have become a staple of celebrations, family gatherings, and everyday moments. Their simplicity, delicious flavor, and crunchy texture have made them a timeless dessert that continues to win over palates.

A Dessert That Combines Tradition and Flavor

Regañadas cookies are a perfect example of how the most basic ingredients—flour, sugar, eggs, and butter—can be transformed into something extraordinary. Making them is an activity that fosters family bonding, as it is often a shared moment between parents, children, and grandparents. This aspect makes them a dessert that not only nourishes the body but also the soul, creating memories and strengthening bonds.

Furthermore, their “scolding” design, achieved by flattening the dough with a fork, not only gives them a unique look but also reflects the creativity and ingenuity of traditional pastry. This small detail makes each cookie special, turning them into a dessert that combines art and flavor.

Versatility and Adaptability

Over time, regañadas cookies have proven to be a versatile dessert that adapts to the tastes and needs of every generation. Although the traditional recipe remains the most beloved, modern variations have been created that include ingredients such as chocolate, nuts, spices, or citrus zest. This ability to reinvent itself without losing its essence is one of the reasons why regañadas cookies remain relevant today.

Plus, they’re accessible to everyone, from baking beginners to experts. No special utensils or hard-to-find ingredients are required, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

A Dessert with Cultural Significance

Regañadas cookies aren’t just a sweet treat; they’re a symbol of the culture and culinary traditions of the communities where they’re made. In Mexico, for example, they’re a common staple at parties, Christmas celebrations, and family celebrations. Their presence at these events makes them a dessert that evokes nostalgia and joy, reminding us of the importance of sharing and enjoying life’s little pleasures.

Furthermore, its history is linked to traditional pastries, where creativity and the use of local ingredients gave rise to desserts that have transcended time. Regañadas cookies are an example of how traditional cuisine can be a source of inspiration and a connection to our roots.

The Legacy of the Scolded Cookies

In a world where industrialized pastries and elaborate desserts dominate the market, regañadas cookies remind us of the value of simplicity and authenticity. Their homemade preparation, comforting flavor, and unique design make them a dessert that remains relevant today.

Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee, sharing it at a family gathering, or simply treating yourself to a sweet treat, regañadas cookies are a perfect choice. Their history, flavor, and cultural significance make them a true treasure of traditional baking.

Estimated preparation time

  • Dough preparation: 15 minutes
  • Dough rest (optional): 20–30 minutes
  • Formed and baked: 25–30 minutes
  • Approximate total: 1 hour

Texture and flavor

  • Texture : Crispy on the outside, slightly soft on the inside if thick; if thinner, completely crispy.
  • Flavor : Moderately sweet, with buttery or lard notes, and a slightly salty touch that balances the sweetness.

Consumer context

  • They are commonly served with coffee, hot chocolate or atole.
  • Very popular in towns and rural communities, especially at fairs, traditional bakeries, and religious celebrations.

Visual appearance

  • Irregular in shape, sometimes with “wrinkled” or cracked edges , which give rise to the name “regañadas” (as if the dough had fought).
  • Light golden color, with a matte or slightly sugary surface.

Curiosities

  • Their name “regañadas” refers to their rough shape or the cracks that may appear during baking.
  • They are an old convent recipe , where basic ingredients were used to offer inexpensive but tasty rolls.
  • In some regions, they are flavored with cinnamon or anise .

Estimated nutritional value (per serving of 1 medium cookie)

  • Calories: 130–150 kcal
  • Fats: 6–8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Sugars: 8 g
  • Protein: 2 g

Additional benefits and interesting facts

  • Made with simple and inexpensive ingredients , without the need for refrigeration.
  • They can be stored for several days in airtight jars.
  • Versatile : You can make them firmer or softer depending on the thickness and baking time.
  • Ideal option to introduce children to the world of baking.

Conclusion

Regañadas cookies are a traditional dessert that combines simplicity and flavor. Making them is an excellent opportunity to connect with homemade baking and enjoy a sweet treat that has been part of culinary culture for generations. Whether to accompany morning coffee, share at a family gathering, or simply treat yourself, these cookies are a perfect choice. Try making them and discover why they’re so beloved!

Regañadas cookies are a dessert that transcends time and borders, uniting people through their flavor and tradition. Making them is an opportunity to connect with our roots, share special moments, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Whether you make them following the traditional recipe or add a personalized touch, regañadas cookies will always delight the palate and warm the heart. Try making them and discover why they are so beloved around the world!