Bollicaos are soft, fluffy pastries filled with rich, melted chocolate — a beloved treat originally from Spain that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. These delightful pastries combine a tender dough with a luscious chocolate center, making them an irresistible indulgence for kids and adults alike.
Making bollicaos at home allows you to control the ingredients, customize the fillings, and enjoy them fresh out of the oven. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced baker looking for a new favorite, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
Ingredients
Makes about 12 pastries
For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 12 pieces of chocolate sticks or chocolate bars (about 1 oz each), or use chocolate chips
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Rising time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Baking time: 15 to 18 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 2 hours
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Bollicaos
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a rectangle roughly 4 by 3 inches.
- Place a piece of chocolate near one edge of the rectangle, then roll the dough tightly around the chocolate, sealing the edges to prevent leakage.
- Place the rolled pastries seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Apply Egg Wash and Bake
- Whisk together the egg and milk to make an egg wash.
- Brush the tops of each bollicao with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve warm for melty chocolate or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for breakfast or afternoon tea.
- Pack in lunchboxes as a delicious treat.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 pastry) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 10 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 32 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 12 grams |
| Sodium | 150 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Provides quick energy from carbohydrates and sugars, perfect for active days.
- Contains moderate protein from eggs and milk to support fullness.
- Made with real chocolate for a satisfying, indulgent flavor.
Tips for Perfect Bollicaos
- Use room temperature ingredients to help the dough rise evenly.
- Seal edges tightly to avoid chocolate oozing out during baking.
- For variety, try fillings like Nutella, fruit jam, or dulce de leche.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for longer storage.
Variations to Try
- Add cinnamon or orange zest to the dough for a fragrant twist.
- Use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or a mix for different flavor profiles.
- Top with coarse sugar before baking for a crunchy texture.
- Make mini bollicaos as bite-sized snacks for parties.
Homemade bollicaos bring the warm, comforting taste of chocolate-filled pastries right into your kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create bakery-quality treats that delight family and friends alike.