Simple Salvadoran butter cookies (Pan tostado, menudo)

In some parts of El Salvador, this is called “pan tostado”. In the capital and surrounding areas is called “pan menudo”. These are more like a cookie consistency. The main ingredient is flour, butter, and sugar.

They are easy to make and you can shape it in many different ways. You can add pineapple marmalade, colored sprinkles, sesame seeds, etc. to decorate them.

Simple ingredients

Cake flour

Butter

Sugar

Water

Vanilla

Instant yeast

Salt

How to make Salvadoran butter cookies(step by step)

1. Using a stand mixer and a flat beater attachment, add butter and sugar. Beat until fully combined and soft.
2. Add flour, yeast, and salt. Start adding the water little by little. Continue to beat for about six minutes total. You will see the dough is soft but it won’t stick to your fingers.
3. Place dough in a floured surface and knead into a ball.
4. Cut dough in equal pieces, around 24. The pieces can be as big or small as you want.
5. Shape each piece to your liking and pass them into the sugar bowl quickly, just to finish the decoration. See video for reference.
6. Place each cookie in a prepared baking tray, and bake for 20 minutes at 350 F
7. Turn off the oven and let the cookies inside as it cools down. I like to do this for extra crispiness, but it is totally optional.

How to serve

We usually dip these cookies in warm milk. That is how I remember we did it growing up. These cookies bring so many memories. You can eat by themselves, but a warm drink will pair them really well.

How to store

Store in an airtight container for about a week.