Medialunas, or "half moons" in Spanish, are delectable crescent-shaped pastries enjoyed throughout Latin America and Spain. Similar to croissants, these buttery delights are perfect for breakfast or as a snack with coffee or tea. 

The history of medialunas traces back to the 19th century in Argentina, where they became a staple of Argentine breakfast culture. While they share similarities with French croissants, medialunas are typically sweeter and denser, owing to the addition of more sugar and a different folding technique. Over time, medialunas have spread in popularity across South America and beyond, becoming beloved treats appreciated for their rich flavor and unique shape.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup warm milk

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

- 1 egg yolk

- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Add the melted butter, egg yolk, vanilla extract, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.

3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.

4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions.

8. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten and shape into crescents.

9. Place the shaped medialunas on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

10. Cover the shaped medialunas with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

11. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

12. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade medialunas!

Nutrition Value:

1. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 440 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 92g

  - Protein: Approximately 12g

  - Fat: Approximately 1g

  - Sodium: Approximately 2mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of calcium, iron, and B vitamins.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides carbohydrates for energy and some protein for muscle repair and growth.

2. Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 200 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 50g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: No significant vitamins or minerals.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides quick energy due to its high carbohydrate content, but it's low in nutritional value.

3. Active Dry Yeast (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 20 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 3g

  - Protein: Approximately 2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 5mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains B vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), and B3 (niacin).

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides a natural source of B vitamins important for energy metabolism and overall health.

4. Salt (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1150mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and helps to balance the sweetness in baked goods. However, excessive sodium intake should be avoided for individuals with certain health conditions.

5. Warm Milk (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 50-75 kcal (depending on milk fat content)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-6g

  - Protein: Approximately 3-4g

  - Fat: Approximately 2-4g (depending on milk fat content)

  - Sodium: Approximately 50-100mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients for bone health and overall well-being.

6. Unsalted Butter, melted (1/4 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 400 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 45g

  - Sodium: Approximately 4mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin A, vitamin E, and small amounts of calcium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds richness and flavor to baked goods, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.

7. Egg Yolk (1 egg yolk):

  - Calories: Approximately 55 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 2.7g

  - Fat: Approximately 4.5g

  - Sodium: Approximately 8mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as B vitamins, iron, and selenium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides essential nutrients such as vitamin D for bone health and choline for brain function.

8. Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.3g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Negligible.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor to baked goods without adding significant calories or nutrients.