Autumn pies with Bistrita plums

Bistrita Plum Pastries - The Taste of Autumn in Every Bite

Autumn is a magical season, full of warm colors and delicious aromas. It is the perfect time to enjoy Bistrita plum pastries, a traditional recipe that combines the sweetness of seasonal fruits with a delicate and crunchy dough. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve the most delicious pastries, perfect for a snack or a family dessert.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 pastries

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 300 g white flour
- 160 g cold butter, diced
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Cold water, as needed

For the filling:
- 500 g plums (pitted), sliced
- 100 g raisins (not soaked)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 egg for brushing the pastries

The History of Plum Pastries

Plum pastries have a long tradition in our cuisine, lovingly prepared every autumn. These sweet pastries are often associated with family memories, reunions, and moments of joy. Of course, each region has its own recipes and variations, but the essence of this simple and delicious dessert remains unchanged – fresh fruits, a delicate dough, and a cinnamon aroma that delights our senses.

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by preparing the dough. In a bowl, rub the egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. This will add a touch of sweetness and provide a pleasant texture to the dough.

Add the flour, salt, and diced cold butter. Use a whisk or spatula to mix the ingredients until you achieve a sandy dough. It is important not to use your hands to avoid melting the butter. When the dough is well mixed, start adding cold water gradually, mixing with a fork. Continue mixing until the dough comes together, but avoid over-kneading – we want to keep the airy texture of the butter.

Once you have a homogeneous dough, cover it with a cloth and let it chill for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a perfectly crunchy dough.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a bowl, add the sliced plums, sugar, cinnamon, flour, and raisins. Gently mix to combine the ingredients. The plums will add natural moisture to the filling, while the raisins will provide extra sweetness. Set the filling aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Forming the Pastries

After the dough has chilled, divide it into two equal parts. Using a rolling pin, roll out a not-too-thick sheet from the first part of the dough. With a round cutter or a glass, cut circles from the dough. In the center of each circle, add a tablespoon of plum filling.

Brush the edges of the circle with beaten egg to seal them well. Cover the filling with another circle of dough and press the edge firmly. Use a sharp knife to make a few holes in the top dough so that steam can escape during baking.

Repeat the process to form all the pastries. They can be baked as rounds or, for a more special presentation, in muffin tins. For the muffin version, cut circles from the dough and line the muffin tins, adding the plum filling in the center.

Step 4: Baking the Pastries

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and brush them with beaten egg for a golden and shiny crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastries are nicely browned. The aromas will spread throughout the house, and your patience will be rewarded with every bite.

Customized Version

If you want to add a touch of originality to the recipe, try adding some chopped nuts to the plum filling or even a splash of vanilla extract. These little details will turn the pastries into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Serving Suggestions

These plum pastries are delicious both warm and cold. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea. Share them with friends and family at a gathering, and you will surely be praised for your culinary talent!

Nutritional Benefits

Plums are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They not only add sweetness to the dessert but also contribute to digestive health. Additionally, using a moderate amount of sugar makes these pastries a healthier choice compared to other desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Yes, apples, pears, or cherries are excellent alternatives that pair well with this dough.

2. How can I keep the pastries fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for longer storage.

3. Can I freeze the pastries?
Absolutely! They can be frozen before baking. Place them on a tray and freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to bake them, let them thaw and bake according to the instructions.

In conclusion, Bistrita plum pastries are not only a delicious dessert but also a perfect way to celebrate autumn. With every bite, you will enjoy the authentic taste of fresh fruits, and the preparation process will bring joy and satisfaction. So, don’t hesitate to try this simple and flavorful recipe!