Published on Saturday, May 10, 2025

By Melissa Pette

Today, we’re whipping up a classic Ticos favorite, "Orejas Dulces", or sweet ears. These tasty treats are crispy, golden pieces of dough, sprinkled with powdered sugar. Whether you deep-fry them or bake them, they’re super easy to make and perfect with a cup of coffee.

You’ll see these snacks all over Costa Rica, especially at local "panaderias" (coffee shops). But honestly? You don’t need to go out to enjoy them. Making them at home is fun, fast, and so worth it.

So, let’s get cookin’!

Ingredients, to serve about 6 guests, you can find them at most supermarkets here.

• 500 g all-purpose flour.

• 3 eggs.

• 100 g lard, butter.

• 250 ml milk.

• ½ tsp baking powder.

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, a splash of vanilla liqueur or anise).

• Sugar for coating (powdered or granulated, your call).

First, mix it up.  In a big bowl, stir together the flour and baking powder.

Add the good stuff.  Mix in the softened lard or butter, then pour in the milk, crack in the eggs, and toss in your flavor of choice (lemon zest, vanilla or anise).

Knead the dough. Work it until the dough feels elastic and smooth. Then let it chill for about an hour so it can rest.

Time to shape the ears. Here comes the fun part. Take small bits of dough and roll them out thin (very thin) with your hands. Try to shape them like large ears, but don’t stress about getting them perfect. The charm is in their homemade look.

There are two ways to cook.

Option 1: Deep-fried for classic and crispy!.  Heat up oil in a pan and fry the ears until they’re golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and give them a nice sprinkle of sugar while they’re still warm.

Option 2: Baked them is lighter but still delicious. After shaping, place the dough on baking pans. Lightly spray two pieces of plastic wrap with cooking spray and cover the dough gently. Let the dough rise again for 45 minutes to an hour.  

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake for about 10 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 10 minutes or so, until the edges turn a lovely golden color. Let them cool a bit on the baking sheets before moving to a wire rack. Sprinkle with sugar once they’re cooled.

These crunchy sweets are great served warm or at room temp. And believe me, from toddlers to great-grandmas, everyone keeps munching ‘til the plate’s empty!

 

Have a pura vida weekend!

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