Where are champurradas from?

Champurradas are from Guatemala . These crispy sesame-topped cookies are part of the country’s traditional pan dulce and are loved for their mild sweetness and buttery crunch. They’re often enjoyed during breakfast or with coffee breaks.

What is the Spanish pastry you dip in coffee in Guatemala?

That would be the champurrada ! It’s the go-to pastry for dipping in café de olla or black coffee. Its firm texture holds up perfectly when dunked, making it a comforting favorite for mid-morning or afternoon coffee breaks.

How many calories in a Guatemalan champurrada?

One champurrada has about 123 calories , depending on size and ingredients. They’re light, not too sweet, and make a great snack with just the right touch of indulgence.

Are there variations of champurradas?

Yes, plenty! While the classic version is made with flour, masa harina , and sesame seeds, variations include chocolate chips, shredded coconut, spices like cinnamon or anise, and even vegan versions. Every family adds its own twist.

Champurradas: The Best Traditional Guatemalan Cookies to Bake Today

Name: Champurradas: The Ultimate Guide to Guatemala’s Iconic Sesame Cookies
Prep time: PT-486549H17M12S
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-486549H17M12S
Yield: 24
Cuisine: Guatemalan
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup masa harina; ¼ cup piloncillo (or brown sugar + molasses); ½ cup white sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 8 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp shortening; Pinch of salt; 3 eggs, divided; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 4 tbsp white sesame seeds

Description

Crispy and golden, these Guatemalan sesame cookies – Champurradas – blend buttery richness with the earthy flavor of piloncillo. They’re perfect with coffee or as a crunchy treat any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup masa harina

¼ cup piloncillo (or brown sugar + molasses)

½ cup white sugar

2 tsp baking powder

8 tbsp unsalted butter

2 tbsp shortening

Pinch of salt

3 eggs, divided

2 tsp vanilla extract

4 tbsp white sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Add butter, shortening, 2 eggs, and vanilla. Beat to form dough.

3. Chill dough for 15 mins.

4. Roll dough thin, cut into 2.5–3” circles.

5. Whisk 1 egg with water for egg wash.

6. Brush tops, sprinkle with sesame seeds.

7. Bake at 350°F for 15–18 mins. Cool on wire rack.

Notes

If using brown sugar instead of piloncillo, add 1 tsp molasses for an authentic flavor. These cookies stay crisp in an airtight container for up to a week.

Prep Time: 1 hr 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Cookies
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Guatemalan

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 123
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 20mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 22mg

Keywords: champurradas, guatemalan cookies, sesame cookies