Almond and orange croissants

Almond and Orange Crescents

Almond and orange crescents are a delight that combines the intense flavors of almonds with the freshness of citrus, creating a dessert that is not only delicious but also impressive. These pastries, with their fragile texture and unmistakable taste, are ideal for any occasion, from holidays to casual gatherings with friends. Let's embark together on a journey into the world of these aromatic crescents!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 2 hours
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Number of servings: 30 crescents

Ingredients:

- 500 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil for a neutral taste)
- 250 ml orange juice (freshly squeezed is ideal)
- 2-3 packets of vanilla sugar (or 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (finely grated to enhance the flavor)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- Almond flour (as needed, approximately 300-400 g, depending on the dough consistency)
- Wheat flour (optional, to adjust the dough consistency)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the oil, orange juice, vanilla sugar, and orange zest. Mix the ingredients well with a spatula or whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step will ensure a flavorful and moist base for the crescents.

2. Adding dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the almond flour with the baking powder. It is important to use fresh almond flour, as the flavors will significantly influence the final taste of the crescents. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet composition, stirring constantly. Continue to add almond flour until you obtain a firm dough that does not stick to your hands. You may need to adjust the amount of almond flour or add a little wheat flour to achieve the desired consistency.

3. Resting the dough: Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for 2 hours. This step is essential as it allows the ingredients to combine and makes the dough easier to handle.

4. Shaping the crescents: After the dough has rested, divide it into smaller pieces. Roll each piece into a thin sheet, about 3-5 mm thick. You can use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness. Cut out desired shapes - triangles, squares, or semicircles. Be creative!

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place parchment paper in a tray and arrange the crescents spaced apart, as they will expand during baking. Bake the crescents for 15-20 minutes or until they are lightly golden but not too hard. The secret is to watch them closely to avoid burning.

6. Cooling: Once ready, remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This step helps maintain their crispiness.

7. Serving: You can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance and sweet taste. These crescents are excellent alongside aromatic tea or fresh coffee. You can also serve them with a spoonful of orange jam or vanilla ice cream for a pleasant contrast.

Useful tips:

- Ingredients: Make sure the oil and orange juice are at room temperature to achieve an even dough. If you can't find almond flour, you can make it at home by grinding almonds in a blender, but be careful not to turn them into paste.
- Variations: You can substitute orange juice with lemon or grapefruit juice for a different flavor. You can also add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture.
- Frequently asked questions: Can the dough be frozen? Yes, the dough can be frozen. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and keep it in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Nutritional benefits: Almonds are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to a healthy diet. These crescents are a better choice compared to processed sweets, due to their natural ingredients and fiber content.

Almond and orange crescents are not only a delicious dessert but also a wonderful way to bring the flavors of summer into your kitchen all year round. Enjoy every bite and relish the cooking process!