Sequilhos (Brazilian Cornstarch Cookies) Recipe
Sequilhos are traditional Brazilian cornstarch cookies known for their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Made with just a few simple ingredients including butter, sweetened condensed milk, and cornstarch, these lightly sweet cookies are easy to prepare and perfect for teatime or as a sweet snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 48 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Brazilian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 113 grams unsalted butter (8 tablespoons), softened to room temperature
- 200 grams sweetened condensed milk (½ cup + 2 tablespoons)
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
- 280 grams cornstarch (2 ¼ cups), may not need all
Instructions
- Mix Butter and Condensed Milk: Combine the softened butter, sweetened condensed milk, and Kosher salt in a large bowl. Use a spatula to mix until the butter is fully incorporated into the condensed milk; some lumps are okay.
- Add Cornstarch: Gradually add the cornstarch, stirring with the spatula to combine. When the dough becomes difficult to mix with the spatula, use your hands to knead until a smooth dough forms. Avoid adding all the cornstarch if not needed.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 teaspoon each. Press each ball with your thumb to create an indentation, place on parchment-lined baking sheets, then flatten slightly with a fork to create fork indentations.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the shaped cookies for 30 minutes to prevent spreading during baking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and position a rack in the middle.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 15 minutes or until the bottoms start to gain some color while the tops remain pale.
- Cool Cookies: Remove from oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 15-20 minutes, then transfer carefully to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough; mix just until smooth to keep the cookies tender.
- Refrigeration is important to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- You can use a fork to create classic markings for an authentic look.
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy incorporation.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
