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Plate of Salpores with coffee

Name: Salpores de Arroz

Summary: A traditional Central American cookie made from rice flour, known for its crumbly texture and sweet, buttery flavor. Perfect with coffee or hot chocolate, these gluten-free cookies are a beloved treat across generations in El Salvador and Nicaragua.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 17 minutes
10 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 20
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Central American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients: Makes about 20-24 cookies
  • 2 cups rice flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp lemon zest, or 1/2 tsp anise seeds

Equipment

  • Equipment:
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Instructions:
  2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time and beat until well incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice flour, baking powder, salt, and any optional spices (like cinnamon or anise).
  6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  7. Shape the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter), and place them on the baking sheet. Lightly flatten each one with your fingers or a fork.
  8. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake!
  9. Let cool on the tray for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Notes

Notes:
For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or vegan margarine.
Add lemon zest for a citrusy twist, or coconut flakes for extra texture.
These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Great for holidays, snack boxes, or dipping in coffee or hot cocoa.