Brandy Snaps with goji and fir syrup

Brandy Snaps with Goji and Spruce Syrup: A Crunchy Delight for Indulgent Moments

When it comes to desserts, Brandy Snaps is a spectacular choice, boasting a crunchy texture and refined flavor. This simple yet elegant recipe transforms into a true feast for the taste buds, especially when combined with unique flavors like goji and spruce syrup. I discovered this recipe from Nadji, whom I thank for the inspiration, and I made a few adjustments to create a perfect dessert to enjoy alongside a cup of green tea with jasmine.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients:

- 70 g flour
- 2 teaspoons goji powder (ground dried goji berries)
- 75 g butter
- 70 g sugar
- 60 ml spruce syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 180-190 degrees Celsius. Ensuring the temperature is accurate is essential for achieving those perfect cookies with a crunchy texture.

2. Mixing dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour with the goji powder. Using a coffee grinder, you can turn the dried goji berries into a fine powder, which will not only add vibrant color but also a slightly tart flavor.

3. Preparing wet ingredients: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. It's important that it doesn't get too hot, as you want to keep the butter in a liquid state without frying it.

4. Incorporating sugar and syrup: Add the sugar and spruce syrup to the warm butter, mixing with a spatula. This is a crucial step: do not let the sugar dissolve completely. A slight granulation will contribute to the final texture of the cookies.

5. Combining ingredients: Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently mix until there are no traces of flour left. A slightly thick batter is what we're aiming for.

6. Shaping the cookies: Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Using a spoon or a piping bag, form circles with a diameter of 8-10 cm. One important thing: make sure to leave enough space between the circles, as the cookies will spread while baking.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. You'll know they're ready when small holes form on the surface and they turn slightly golden. A little note: the last cookies may need a bit more time, so keep an eye on them.

8. Cooling and shaping: Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool for 2-3 minutes. During this time, take each disc and place it on a rolling pin, gently rolling it. This step will create an elegant shape, and the cookies will cool in this position for 4-5 minutes.

9. Serving: Typically, Brandy Snaps are filled with whipped cream or custard, but if you don't have these ingredients on hand, you can enjoy the cookies plain. The flavor will not disappoint!

Practical Tips:

- Goji powder: If you don't have a coffee grinder, you can use a blender or food processor. Make sure the pulp doesn't become wet, or it won't mix well into the batter.
- Spruce syrup: This ingredient is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants. You can substitute spruce syrup with maple syrup or honey, but the flavor will vary.
- Variations: Try adding some ground nuts or coconut flakes to the mixture for a varied texture. You can also experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or vanilla.

Nutritional Benefits:

This dessert is not only delicious but also a bit healthier than many other options. Goji berries are known for their antioxidant properties, and spruce syrup adds natural flavor without artificial sugars. The cookies are a good source of healthy fats thanks to the butter and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other dried fruits? Yes, you can experiment with other types of dried fruits. Each will impart a unique flavor to the cookies.

2. How can I store the cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent moisture absorption.

3. Is this dessert vegan? No, but you can adapt the recipe using vegan butter or margarine.

Perfect Pairings: This dessert pairs beautifully with green tea with jasmine, but it can also be enjoyed alongside a strong espresso or a sweet wine. Additionally, you can try serving it with vanilla ice cream or chocolate mousse for a delicious contrast.

Personal Notes: These Brandy Snaps with Goji and Spruce Syrup quickly became a favorite in my family. I fondly remember the moments spent at tea time, where the crunchy cookies perfectly complemented the delicate flavors of the tea. So, I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones – it will surely be a hit!