Thin pastry discs filled with piloncillo or brown sugar are a beloved Sonoran sweet. This traditional dessert offers a crispy, caramelized bite that is a family favorite across Northern Mexico.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well to evenly distribute leavening and spice.
Cut in the vegetable shortening with your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring the shortening remains cold for flakiness.
Stir in the egg and milk gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms. Take care not to overwork the dough to avoid toughness.
Cover and let the dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, allowing gluten to relax and hydration for easier rolling.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness and cut into 16 discs, each about 3 inches across.
Place a heaping tablespoon of brown sugar in the center of 8 discs. Moisten the edges with a little water, top each with a second disc, and gently seal the edges with a fork.
Poke a couple of holes on top of each coyota with a fork for steam release, and dust generously with sugar.
Arrange coyotas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes, rotating halfway through for even browning, until golden and crisp at the edges.
Cool on a rack for 10 minutes; enjoy warm or at room temperature for maximum caramelization and crunch.