Cream and lard croissants

Cream Cheese and Lard Crescents: a nostalgic family recipe that reminds us of moments spent around the table, enjoying delicious desserts. These crescents are easy to prepare, have a tender texture, and an unforgettable taste, making them perfect to accompany a cup of tea or coffee. I invite you to discover step by step how to make them and enjoy their irresistible aroma.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 800 g lard (make sure it's of good quality, as it will affect the final taste)
- 800 g cream cheese (choose a full-fat cream cheese for a creamier result)
- 1 egg (for a richer texture)
- a pinch of salt (about 1/2 teaspoon)
- flour as needed (about 1 kg, but it may vary depending on humidity)
- Turkish delight (cut into small cubes; choosing a quality product will make a difference)
- powdered sugar for dusting (for an elegant and sweet finish)

Recipe History
Cream cheese and lard crescents are a traditional delicacy, often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings. They have been adapted over time, with each family having its own version, but the essence remains the same: a simple yet flavorful dough filled with a sweet surprise.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the softened lard (but not melted) and the cream cheese. Mix them well with a spatula or mixer until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add the egg and a pinch of salt, continuing to mix. Gradually incorporate the flour until the dough becomes a suitable consistency that doesn't stick to your hands.

2. Resting the dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the fats to solidify, which will make it easier to roll out the dough and contribute to the tender texture of the crescents.

3. Shaping the crescents
After the dough has rested in the fridge, take it out and roll it out on a work surface. There's no need to flour the surface, as the lard will prevent sticking. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a thin sheet, about 0.5 cm thick. Cut the sheet into equal squares (about 7-10 cm).

4. Filling and rolling
On each square of dough, place a piece of Turkish delight. Roll the dough from one corner to the opposite corner, forming a crescent. Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent unrolling during baking.

5. Baking
Prepare a baking tray and line it with parchment paper. Place the formed crescents on it, leaving some space between them to allow for expansion. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the crescents for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden.

6. Finishing
After baking, remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool slightly. While they are still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar for an attractive appearance and sweet taste.

Helpful Tips
- Filling Variations: If you want to experiment, you can replace the Turkish delight with fruit jam or chocolate for a modern twist on the traditional recipe.
- Storage: The crescents can be stored in an airtight container for a few days, but they are most delicious when consumed fresh.
- Serving: These crescents are excellent alongside a cup of black tea or a flavored coffee. You can also serve them with vanilla ice cream for a more sophisticated dessert.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Protein: 5 g

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use butter instead of lard?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary. Lard provides a specific tenderness to the crescents.

- Can the crescents be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the crescents before baking. Place them on a tray, freeze them, then transfer them to an airtight container. When you want to bake them, cook them directly from the freezer.

- Why add an egg to the dough?
The egg helps bind the ingredients and gives the dough a richer texture, making the crescents fluffier.

I encourage you to try this simple recipe for cream cheese and lard crescents. It can quickly become your favorite, bringing a touch of tradition and warmth to your everyday life! Enjoy every bite and share them with your loved ones to turn every moment into a celebration!