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Guatemalan chiquiadores are a type of sweet bread or “pan dulce” that is popular in Guatemalan cuisine. This Guatemalan dessert is known for their crunchy texture and flat shape, which distinguishes them from other types of sweet bread.
The recipe for chiquiadores typically includes flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. The dough is mixed together until it forms a smooth consistency and is then shaped into long, thin fingers before baking. This Guatemalan version of ladyfingers is sweet and delicious but a less spongy and crunchier than it’s European ancestor. It’s one of my favorite Guatemalan foods, after all what could be better than a sweet crunchy cookie that you dip in your hot chocolate or ice cream?
Chiquiadores: bringing back memories of my childhood in Guatemala
Chuiquiadores, also known as chiquiadores, hold a special place in my heart as they were a beloved part of my childhood in Guatemala. Growing up, they were where always chiquiadores and barquillos at birthday parties, and they were the perfect accompaniment to our ice cream sundaes. I remember the joy I felt as a child, biting into the crunchy, sweet layers of these cookie-like treats.
While chiquiadores are similar to ladyfingers, they have a unique texture that sets them apart. They are a bit crunchier and flatter, with a slightly different flavor profile that is just as delicious. I always loved watching my grandmother make them, carefully measuring out the ingredients and folding the batter to the perfect consistency.
Today, I continue to make chiquiadores using my family’s recipe. Whenever I bake a batch, it brings back so many happy memories of those carefree days. I love the simplicity of the ingredients – just flour, eggs, and sugar – and the ease of the recipe, making it a go-to dessert option for any occasion. There’s something so comforting about the familiar taste and texture of these sweet treats, and I feel grateful to have such a cherished recipe that has been passed down through generations.
My grandma would use chiquiadores to make one of my favorite desserts: leche guisada. Be sure to check out the recipe for this charlotte like dessert made with manjar, sweet wine and lots of delicious chiquiadores.
What are chiquiadores
Chiquiadores share many similarities with ladyfingers, from the flavor and the shape to the recipe’s origin. Compared to ladyfingers, chiquiadores have a slightly different texture and shape. While both are sweet, cookie-like treats, ladyfingers are typically softer and fluffier on the inside, with a more rounded shape. Chiquiadores, on the other hand, are known for their crunchiness and flatness. They are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert, and can be eaten on their own or used as a base for other desserts, such as ice cream sundaes or trifles.
History of chiquiadores
As mentioned before, chiquiadores are the Guatemalan version of ladyfingers. The first ladyfingers were created in the late 15th century at the court of the Duchy of Savoy, during a visit by the King of France. They were then named savoiardi and became an “official” court biscuit. Younger members of the court particularly enjoyed them, and they were offered to visitors as an example of local cuisine.
Ladyfingers were introduced to America by French settlers and have become a staple ingredient in elaborate French and Italian desserts. Although the recipe has changed little in nine hundred years, chiquiadores, a variation of ladyfingers, are made with less eggs making them crunchier and less spongy than traditional European ladyfingers.
Fool proof recipe for Guatemalan chiquiadores
Ready to make this sweet and crunchy Guatemalan treat? Look no further than this fool-proof recipe for chiquiadores. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be enjoying these delightful cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of wheat flour
- 3 egg whites
- 1 cup of sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- ½ teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 cup of sugar or powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Beat the 3 egg whites at maximum speed for 3 minutes. Add 1 cup of sugar and 3 egg yolks while continuing to beat.
- In a separate bowl, combine the wheat flour and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. Mix well with gentle, folding movements to avoid lumps.
- Transfer the mixture into a pastry bag. On a baking tray lined with parchment paper, pipe short lines of the mixture.
- Sprinkle sugar or powdered sugar over the mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Let cool for 30 minutes.
Serve this crunchy dessert with a good cup of coffee or a scoop of ice cream.
Tips for making the best chiquiadores
- Different types of flour may require varying amounts of liquid, so it’s a good idea to reserve some liquid and adjust it as needed. If the dough is too thin, you can sprinkle in a small amount of flour and fold it in gently until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Before incorporating the sugar, beat the egg whites until they are light and fluffy. This will create a sturdy structure that can hold the sugar without collapsing. Whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks that stand straight up when the beaters are lifted.
- To prevent the mixture from deflating, use a thin-edged metal spoon for folding. This will minimize the chance of overmixing and compromising the batter’s texture.
- For even better results, consider chilling the batter in the fridge for about half an hour before baking. This will help the flavors meld and create a more cohesive final product.
- Store in an airtight container as soon as they are cool to prevent them from getting too crunchy.
I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. And if you’re wondering how to eat your chiquiadores there is no right way or wrong way to eat them whether you’re having them as a snack or as a dessert. I love to eat my chiquiadores dipped in a cup of coffee or chocolate or with my favorite ice cream. They are also delicious as a snack accompanied by a delicious glass of rosa de jamaica or horchata.
Guatemalan Chiquiadores Recipe
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup of wheat flour
- 3 egg whites
- 1 cup of sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- ½ teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 cup of sugar or powdered sugar
Instructions
- Beat the 3 egg whites at maximum speed for 3 minutes. Add 1 cup of sugar and 3 egg yolks while continuing to beat.
- In a separate bowl, combine the wheat flour and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. Mix well with gentle, folding movements to avoid lumps.
- Transfer the mixture into a pastry bag. On a baking tray lined with parchment paper, pipe short lines of the mixture.
- Sprinkle sugar or powdered sugar over the mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Let cool for 30 minutes.
Other Guatemalan Desserts
From sweet cakes to creamy custards, there’s no shortage of delicious Guatemalan treats to try. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or more modern twists, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out some of my favorite Guatemalan desserts and try out the recipes so you can make them at home.
Empanadas De Manjar De Leche (Filled With Custard)
Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or a satisfying dessert to finish off your meal, these empanadas are sure to hit the spot. These delicious hand pies feature a flaky crust, and creamy custard filling will satisfy your sweet cravings!
Rellenitos De Platano
If you’re looking for the best Guatemalan rellenitos de plátano recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This Guatemalan dessert is one of my favorites: ripe plantains filled with beans and covered in sugar. This sweet plantain recipe is one of the most popular desserts in Guatemala.
Arroz Con Leche Classic Recipe
In this yummy rice pudding recipe, you will taste the flavors of Guatemala melting in your mouth. It is an easy dessert you will surely be delighted to eat. Arroz con leche is the perfect Guatemalan dessert to make with the whole family on a rainy day. I hope you enjoy this quick and delicious typical Guatemalan recipe as much as I do.
Champurradas
A super easy recipe for champurradas that will surely be a success with everyone in the family! Guatemalan champurradas are scrumptious giant cookies with the perfect level of crunch to dunk in your morning coffee! This traditional Guatemalan dessert is so simple to make and perfect if you’re looking for an easy Guatemalan dish.
Cocadas
Paula studied architecture and now makes a living as a freelance writer,traveler and amateur photographer.She started her writing & publishing career as the editor of Bebé y Mamá, the first parenting magazine in Guatemala.She is the founder of www.GrowingUpBilingual.com and www.365thingsswfl.com and writes articles in Spanish and English for both magazines and the web on travel,food and bicultural and bilingual parenting .
When she is not on a plane or road trip she likes to create recipes inspired in the flavors of her native Guatemala.
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I love that beautiful coffee mug with the Quezal bird on it! Where did you get it? Can I get one?
I took these photos in Guatemala at my dad’s house. I have no idea where he got it.
Do you mean whole wheat flour or all purpose flour? I want to make sure I use the right version. Thank you!
You should use all purpose flour for this recipe.