Berlin Sticks

Berlin Sticks: A Delicacy with Jam and Nuts

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I will take you on a culinary adventure full of flavor, where we will prepare Berlin sticks, a simple yet elegant dessert that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. These sticks are perfect for indulgent moments and can be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 20

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 200 g all-purpose flour (choose a quality flour with a medium gluten content for a tender dough)
- 140 g butter (ideally at room temperature for easier incorporation)
- 70 g powdered sugar
- 3 egg yolks (fresh for a rich flavor)
- Zest of half a lemon (for an extra touch of freshness)
- A pinch of salt

For the glaze:
- 3 egg whites (fresh for a light and airy foam)
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed for a tangy note)
- 100 g ground nuts (preferably lightly toasted to enhance flavor)
- A splash of rum essence (optional but recommended for a deeper taste)
- Zest of half a lemon

For the filling:
- About 1 jar of soft, tangy jam (choose a seasonal fruit jam for a fresh touch)

Preparation of Berlin Sticks

Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. In a large bowl, add the flour and the cut butter. Rub them together with your fingertips until you achieve a texture similar to fine sand. This is an important technique that helps incorporate air into the dough, making it more tender.

Add the powdered sugar, egg yolks, lemon zest, and salt. Knead well until the dough becomes homogeneous and easy to shape. If the dough seems too sticky, feel free to add a little flour.

Step 2: Baking the base
Roll out the obtained dough on a floured surface until you get a uniformly thick sheet (about 0.5 cm). Transfer the sheet to a greased and floured baking tray or lined with parchment paper. Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until it turns slightly golden at the edges.

Step 3: Filling with jam
After 15 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and evenly spread the tangy jam over the dough. This layer will add a pleasant contrast of taste and moisture.

Step 4: Preparing the glaze
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and lemon juice, continuing to beat until you obtain a glossy and firm mixture. Now, using a spatula, fold in the ground nuts and lemon zest, being careful not to overmix to maintain the aeration of the foam.

Step 5: Baking the glaze
Pour the glaze evenly over the jam layer. Place the tray back in the oven on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze begins to set. You will know it's ready when it feels slightly firm to the touch.

Step 6: Cutting and serving
After baking, let the sticks cool completely in the tray. Once cooled, cut them into shapes of 10 cm x 2.5 cm. These Berlin sticks are perfect to be served as a sweet dessert on a quiet afternoon or as a treat at a family gathering.

Chef's Tip
If you want to add a personal touch, you can experiment with different types of jam, such as apricot or orange, which pair wonderfully with the nuts and glaze. Also, for an even more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla essence to the glaze.

Nutritional Benefits
These Berlin sticks are not only delicious but also contain valuable nutrients. Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, while lemon provides a boost of vitamin C, essential for the immune system. Although sweet desserts are not usually associated with a healthy lifestyle, when consumed in moderation, these sticks can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of nut?
Absolutely! You can substitute the nuts with hazelnuts or pistachios; it all depends on personal preference.

2. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap.

3. What drinks pair best with these sticks?
These sticks are perfect alongside a fragrant herbal tea or a black coffee to balance the sweetness.

Conclusion
These Berlin sticks are not just a dessert but a family story, a moment of relaxation, and an opportunity to share beautiful moments with loved ones. With each bite, you will feel an explosion of flavors and textures, from caramelized delicacies to crunchy nuts. Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family, because every meal is better when enjoyed together! Enjoy your meal!