Chrysanthemums with Almonds: A Festive Delight in Flower Shape
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 chrysanthemums
I invite you to discover with me a special recipe that not only offers an impressive appearance but also a divine taste. Chrysanthemums with almonds are a dessert that brings joy and flavor to every moment spent with loved ones. This dish is not just a pleasure for the taste buds but also a true culinary work of art.
The history of this sweet dessert is fascinating and full of traditions. Chrysanthemums, as a presentation form, symbolize beauty and ephemerality, often associated with celebrations and special moments. Whether it’s a festive meal or a simple gathering with friends, these almond delights are sure to make an impression.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 400 g flour
- 16 g fresh yeast
- 2 small eggs
- 75 g sugar
- 125 ml warm milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 25 ml oil
- Zest of one lemon
For the filling:
- 200 g chocolate (dark or milk)
- 65 g powdered sugar
- 65 ml cream
- 200 g ground walnuts (or ground almonds, according to preference)
- A splash of rum essence
For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon milk
- Poppy seeds for decoration
Step by step for chrysanthemums with almonds
1. Preparing the oven and the tray
Start by preheating the oven to 180 °C. Choose a large tray that you will line with parchment paper to prevent the chrysanthemums from sticking.
2. Activating the yeast
In a small bowl, add the fresh yeast to the warm milk along with a teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to ensure proper rising of the dough.
3. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and the remaining sugar. Mix the dry ingredients well, then add the yeast mixture, oil, eggs, and lemon zest. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This is the moment when you can let your creativity soar; you can add a little lemon juice for a more pronounced flavor.
4. Rising the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about an hour or until it doubles in volume.
5. Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In another bowl, melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave, being careful not to burn it. Once melted, add the powdered sugar, cream, and ground walnuts or almonds. Mix well until homogeneous. Make sure the filling is thick and not liquid; if it’s too soft, you can add a little flour or ground nuts to thicken it.
6. Shaping the chrysanthemums
After the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the dough into a thick sheet of about 0.5 cm. Cut it into pieces of about 50 g. Each piece will turn into a chrysanthemum.
7. Filling and shaping
Roll each piece into a circle, add a teaspoon of filling in the center, and wrap the dough like a pouch, pressing the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking. Then, turn the pouch upside down and press gently.
8. Creating the petals
Use scissors to cut the petals of the chrysanthemums, making V-shaped cuts on the edges, gently rotating each chrysanthemum 45 degrees between cuts. These cuts will help create a flower-like effect.
9. Second rising
Let the chrysanthemums rise for another 20-30 minutes, covered with a towel, to puff up even more.
10. Brushing and baking
Mix the egg yolk with the milk and brush each chrysanthemum with this mixture. Sprinkle poppy seeds in the center for added texture and an attractive appearance. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden and browned.
11. Cooling and serving
After baking, remove the chrysanthemums from the tray and let them cool on a plate. You can serve them plain or with warm chocolate sauce for an extra touch of decadence.
Helpful tips and variations
- You can replace almonds with other nuts or seeds, such as pistachios or hazelnuts, to achieve a different flavor.
- Experiment with various fillings: add dried fruits, such as raisins or candied orange peel, for a fresh note.
- These chrysanthemums pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, making them ideal for a relaxing afternoon or a gathering with friends.
Nutritional information
One serving of chrysanthemums with almonds (approximately 1 chrysanthemum) contains about 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients and portions. This dessert provides a good source of energy, but it’s best to consume it in moderation due to its sugar and fat content. Nuts and almonds contribute protein and healthy fats, benefiting heart health.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, making sure to follow the instructions on the package for the amount.
2. How can I make the chrysanthemums less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and filling, or opt for chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage.
3. How long can I keep the chrysanthemums?
They keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chrysanthemums (without baking them) and bake them later.
In conclusion, chrysanthemums with almonds are a dessert that combines tradition with creativity, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you serve them on a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, these delights will bring smiles to the faces of those who taste them. So, don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family and enjoy the beautiful moments spent together!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 chrysanthemums
I invite you to discover with me a special recipe that not only offers an impressive appearance but also a divine taste. Chrysanthemums with almonds are a dessert that brings joy and flavor to every moment spent with loved ones. This dish is not just a pleasure for the taste buds but also a true culinary work of art.
The history of this sweet dessert is fascinating and full of traditions. Chrysanthemums, as a presentation form, symbolize beauty and ephemerality, often associated with celebrations and special moments. Whether it’s a festive meal or a simple gathering with friends, these almond delights are sure to make an impression.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 400 g flour
- 16 g fresh yeast
- 2 small eggs
- 75 g sugar
- 125 ml warm milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 25 ml oil
- Zest of one lemon
For the filling:
- 200 g chocolate (dark or milk)
- 65 g powdered sugar
- 65 ml cream
- 200 g ground walnuts (or ground almonds, according to preference)
- A splash of rum essence
For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon milk
- Poppy seeds for decoration
Step by step for chrysanthemums with almonds
1. Preparing the oven and the tray
Start by preheating the oven to 180 °C. Choose a large tray that you will line with parchment paper to prevent the chrysanthemums from sticking.
2. Activating the yeast
In a small bowl, add the fresh yeast to the warm milk along with a teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to ensure proper rising of the dough.
3. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and the remaining sugar. Mix the dry ingredients well, then add the yeast mixture, oil, eggs, and lemon zest. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This is the moment when you can let your creativity soar; you can add a little lemon juice for a more pronounced flavor.
4. Rising the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about an hour or until it doubles in volume.
5. Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In another bowl, melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave, being careful not to burn it. Once melted, add the powdered sugar, cream, and ground walnuts or almonds. Mix well until homogeneous. Make sure the filling is thick and not liquid; if it’s too soft, you can add a little flour or ground nuts to thicken it.
6. Shaping the chrysanthemums
After the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the dough into a thick sheet of about 0.5 cm. Cut it into pieces of about 50 g. Each piece will turn into a chrysanthemum.
7. Filling and shaping
Roll each piece into a circle, add a teaspoon of filling in the center, and wrap the dough like a pouch, pressing the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking. Then, turn the pouch upside down and press gently.
8. Creating the petals
Use scissors to cut the petals of the chrysanthemums, making V-shaped cuts on the edges, gently rotating each chrysanthemum 45 degrees between cuts. These cuts will help create a flower-like effect.
9. Second rising
Let the chrysanthemums rise for another 20-30 minutes, covered with a towel, to puff up even more.
10. Brushing and baking
Mix the egg yolk with the milk and brush each chrysanthemum with this mixture. Sprinkle poppy seeds in the center for added texture and an attractive appearance. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden and browned.
11. Cooling and serving
After baking, remove the chrysanthemums from the tray and let them cool on a plate. You can serve them plain or with warm chocolate sauce for an extra touch of decadence.
Helpful tips and variations
- You can replace almonds with other nuts or seeds, such as pistachios or hazelnuts, to achieve a different flavor.
- Experiment with various fillings: add dried fruits, such as raisins or candied orange peel, for a fresh note.
- These chrysanthemums pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, making them ideal for a relaxing afternoon or a gathering with friends.
Nutritional information
One serving of chrysanthemums with almonds (approximately 1 chrysanthemum) contains about 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients and portions. This dessert provides a good source of energy, but it’s best to consume it in moderation due to its sugar and fat content. Nuts and almonds contribute protein and healthy fats, benefiting heart health.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, making sure to follow the instructions on the package for the amount.
2. How can I make the chrysanthemums less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and filling, or opt for chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage.
3. How long can I keep the chrysanthemums?
They keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chrysanthemums (without baking them) and bake them later.
In conclusion, chrysanthemums with almonds are a dessert that combines tradition with creativity, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you serve them on a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, these delights will bring smiles to the faces of those who taste them. So, don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family and enjoy the beautiful moments spent together!