When the sun rises over the beautiful shores of Puerto Rico, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Mallorcas wafting through the air. These delightful sweet rolls, with their buttery softness and a hint of sweetness, have a way of transforming an ordinary morning into a festive occasion. I remember the first time I sought the perfect breakfast treat to impress my friends. After a few attempts, I discovered these blissful rolls that not only filled my kitchen with warmth but also delighted everyone’s taste buds.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can whisk up a batch of these Puerto Rican Breakfast Sweet Rolls that are destined to be your new brunch favorite. The blend of milk, eggs, and a touch of cinnamon creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and irresistible. And the best part? They’re incredibly versatile. Serve them plain or drizzled with a delicious glaze for a sweet start to your day or as a delightful afternoon snack. Ready to bring a touch of island magic to your home? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!
Why will you love Mallorcas?
Simplicity Perfected: With just a few straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master these delightful rolls.
Butter and Sugar Bliss: The rich butter and sugar mixture imparts a luscious sweetness that makes every bite unforgettable.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast delight or a satisfying snack any time of day.
Crowd-Pleasing Aroma: The heavenly scent that fills your kitchen while they bake is bound to draw everyone in.
Irresistibly Soft Texture: These rolls boast a fluffy, cloud-like quality that melts in your mouth, making them an instant favorite.
Mallorcas Ingredients
• Discover the essential components for these Puerto Rican Breakfast Sweet Rolls!
For the Dough
- Whole milk – provides moisture and richness needed for fluffy rolls.
- Active dry yeast – ensures the dough rises beautifully for that light texture.
- Granulated sugar (pinch) – boosts yeast activity for a sweet fermentation.
- All-purpose flour – the base that gives structure; use plenty for rolling!
- Unsalted butter – brings a creamy flavor and tenderness to the rolls.
- Granulated sugar – adds the perfect sweetness to the dough itself.
- Kosher salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Large eggs – enrich the dough and help it rise evenly.
For the Glaze
- Light corn syrup or honey – gives a delightful sheen and sweetness to the finished rolls.
- Water – used to thin the glaze for easy application.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the glaze just right for that irresistible finish.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting) – adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
- Ground cinnamon (optional) – sprinkle on for an added layer of warm flavor.
With these simple yet impactful ingredients, you are just moments away from mastering the art of making Mallorcas that will captivate anyone who takes a bite!
How to Make Mallorcas
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Warm the milk: In a 2-quart saucepan, gently warm the milk over low heat until it begins to steam. Remove from heat and let it cool to 110°F (45°C).
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Prepare the sponge: In a medium bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, pinch of granulated sugar, and 2 cups (260 grams) of all-purpose flour. Mix until it forms a thick paste, then cover and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour.
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Beat the butter mixture: Ten minutes before the sponge is ready, add the butter, sugar, and salt to a stand mixer bowl. Beat on medium-high speed for 4 minutes until it becomes pale yellow and fluffy.
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Add eggs and sponge: Lower the mixer speed and add the eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl after each addition. Then, add the sponge and 1 cup of the remaining flour, mixing on low speed until a thick paste forms (about 1 1/2 minutes).
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Knead the dough: Switch to the dough hook, scrape the bowl’s sides, and add the remaining flour. Knead on medium speed for 5 minutes until the dough is soft and sticky.
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Chill the dough: Lightly grease a sheet pan with the butter wrapper. Scrape the dough onto the pan, spreading it evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-24 hours.
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Roll the dough: Once chilled, lightly flour a work surface. Scrape the dough onto the countertop, knead 3-4 times, and roll into an 18″ x 12″ (45 cm x 30 cm) rectangle, 1/4″ thick.
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Cut and coil: Cut the rectangle into twelve 1 1/4-inch (3 cm) wide strips. Roll each strip into a coil, slightly opening the top of the roll. Cover with a kitchen towel and let proof in a warm area for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
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Preheat the oven: While the rolls are proofing, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water until smooth.
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Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the corn syrup (or honey), water, and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, then remove from heat to cool.
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Bake the rolls: Once the rolls have finished proofing, brush them with a thin layer of egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re light brown and sound hollow when thumped.
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Glaze and serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Brush with sugar glaze, then mix the powdered sugar and ground cinnamon, and sift over each mallorca before serving.
Optional: Serve with a fresh fruit salad for a delightful pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mallorcas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, which allows the flavors to deepen while saving valuable time during your busy mornings. To do this, simply follow the recipe until you chill the rolled dough on the sheet pan, tightly covered with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to proof for 45 minutes to an hour, then proceed with the baking steps. This method ensures your Mallorcas are just as delicious and fluffy, giving you the taste of homemade comfort with minimal effort on the day of serving!
What to Serve with Mallorcas?
Transform your breakfast spread with delightful additions that perfectly accompany these sweet Puerto Rican rolls.
- Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: The vibrant flavors of pineapple, mango, and bananas add a refreshing contrast to the sweet richness of mallorcas.
- Light Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of smooth cream cheese frosting enhances the sweetness while adding a creamy texture, making each bite unforgettable.
- Café con Leche: This traditional coffee, with its rich espresso and creamy milk, pairs beautifully, creating a comforting breakfast experience.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A warm drizzle of maple syrup provides an additional layer of sweetness, elevating the taste of the already delightful rolls.
- Coconut Flavored Yogurt: The tangy, creamy yogurt complements the sweetness of mallorcas, adding a tropical flair that makes brunch feel festive.
- Savory Breakfast Sausages: The savory, salty flavor of breakfast sausages brilliantly balances the sweetness of the rolls, perfect for those who enjoy sweet-and-savory combinations.
- Berries with Honey: A simple bowl of mixed berries drizzled with honey adds a refreshing and healthy note that complements the mallorcas beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a fun twist, serving warm mallorcas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms them into a decadent dessert treat.
- Hot Chocolate or Chocolate Milk: Indulge in creamy hot chocolate alongside mallorcas for a rich, comforting pairing that’s especially inviting on chilly mornings.
Tips for the Best Mallorcas
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Proper Milk Temperature: Ensure the milk cools to 110°F (45°C) before adding yeast. Too hot can kill the yeast, leading to dense rolls.
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Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow the sponge to rise for a full hour. This step develops the flavor and ensures a light texture in your mallorcas.
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Egg Wash Essentials: Brush your mallorcas lightly with the egg wash before baking. This gives them a beautiful golden color and enhances the presentation.
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Chill Time Benefits: Refrigerating the dough not only makes it easier to roll but also improves the flavor and texture of the finished rolls.
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Right Bake Time: Monitor your mallorcas closely; they should be baked until light brown and sound hollow when tapped. Overbaking can lead to dryness.
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Serve Fresh: Enjoy these Puerto Rican breakfast sweet rolls warm for the best flavor. They’re delicious on their own or with a drizzle of glaze!
How to Store and Freeze Mallorcas
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Room Temperature: Store cooled mallorcas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful for your morning enjoyment.
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Fridge: For longer storage, place mallorcas in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked feel.
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Freezer: Wrap mallorcas tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
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Reheating: To reheat from the fridge, warm them in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. This will revive their softness and make them perfectly enjoyable again!
Mallorcas Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful adaptations of the classic recipe to make it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly version. Just ensure you choose unsweetened varieties for balance.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free dough without compromising on texture and flavor.
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Sweetener Swap: Instead of granulated sugar, try using natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or maple syrup for a unique twist.
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Flavor Enhancer: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the sweetness.
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Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Before rolling the strips, sprinkle with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a delightful spice that’ll elevate every bite.
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Fruit-Infused Rolls: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the dough for a juicy, chewy surprise in each roll.
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Nutty Goodness: Fold in some crushed nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the dough for an added crunch and rich flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the dough for a surprising and engaging heat that pairs beautifully with sweetness.
These variations invite you to create your unique take on Mallorcas, infusing each bite with your family’s favorite flavors!
Mallorcas Recipe FAQs
What type of milk should I use for Mallorcas?
Absolutely! For Mallorcas, whole milk is best as it provides the moisture and richness necessary for fluffy rolls. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can experiment with 2% milk, but the texture may not be as rich.
How should I store leftover Mallorcas?
To keep your delicious Mallorcas fresh, store any cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge where they can stay fresh for up to a week. Just remember to reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feeling!
Can I freeze Mallorcas?
Yes, you can! To freeze your delectable Mallorcas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the rolls overnight in the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
Very good question! If your dough isn’t rising, the yeast might be the culprit. Ensure your milk cooled to the right temperature of 110°F (45°C) before mixing—too hot can kill the yeast. Additionally, make sure you’re using fresh yeast and allow the sponge to rise in a warm, draft-free area. If it’s still slow, try moving it to a warmer spot or give it more time.
Are Mallorcas appropriate for those with allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! Mallorcas contain common allergens such as dairy (milk and butter), eggs, and gluten (from flour). For those who are lactose intolerant or have gluten allergies, you can try using lactose-free milk and gluten-free flour blends. However, be sure to check the other ingredients in any substitutes to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs.
How long does it take to prepare and bake Mallorcas?
The total time for making Mallorcas is approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes; this includes a prep time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Also, keep in mind that the dough needs to chill for 1 to 24 hours, so planning ahead is key to enjoying your delicious Puerto Rican breakfast sweet rolls!
Mallorcas: Irresistible Puerto Rican Breakfast Sweet Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm the milk over low heat until it begins to steam, then cool to 110°F (45°C).
- Combine the warm milk, yeast, pinch of sugar, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until thick, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- In a stand mixer, beat the butter, sugar, and salt on medium-high for 4 minutes until pale and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition, then add the sponge and remaining flour. Mix on low until a thick paste forms.
- Switch to the dough hook and knead on medium for 5 minutes until soft and sticky.
- Grease a sheet pan and scrape the dough onto it, spreading evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 24 hours.
- Lightly flour a surface, knead the dough a few times, and roll into an 18" x 12" rectangle, 1/4" thick.
- Cut into twelve 1 1/4-inch strips and roll each into a coil. Let proof in a warm area for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Whisk egg yolk with water.
- Combine corn syrup (or honey), water, and granulated sugar in a saucepan. Boil for 1.5 to 2 minutes, then cool.
- Brush rolls with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until light brown and hollow-sounding.
- Cool for 5 minutes, brush with glaze, and dust with powdered sugar and cinnamon before serving.