Fluffy croissants

Little crescent pastries with jam and walnuts - a sweet family tradition

Little crescent pastries with jam and walnuts are undoubtedly one of the most beloved delicacies, appreciated not only for their refined taste but also for the beautiful memories they evoke. These little treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it is a family celebration, a name day, or simply an afternoon when you want to indulge yourself. Therefore, I invite you to prepare these delicious crescents, and I will provide you with all the details you need to achieve a perfect result.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 30 crescents (enough to satisfy a small gathering of family or friends)

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 300 g butter or margarine (I recommend using Rama Maestro for a perfect taste)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 cup of warm water (or sourdough for a more intense flavor)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 egg
- Flour as needed (approximately 700 g, but add gradually until you achieve the desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder

For the filling:
- Strawberry, plum jam, or any other preferred jam
- Ground walnuts (approximately 100 g)

Step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by creaming the butter or margarine with the 2 tablespoons of sugar in a large bowl. It is crucial to obtain a creamy and homogeneous mixture, as this will influence the final texture of your crescents. Add the baking powder, egg, salt, and warm water (or sourdough) and mix well.

Step 2: Shaping the dough
Begin to incorporate the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or with your hands until you obtain a consistent but soft dough. It is important not to overdo it with flour, as the crescents will become dry. Once you have achieved the desired dough, cover it with a clean towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to handle.

Step 3: Preheating the oven
While the dough is resting, preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). It is essential that the temperature is correct to achieve the ideal texture of the crescents.

Step 4: Forming the crescents
After the dough has had time to rest, sprinkle flour on the working surface and roll out a thin sheet. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into triangles. In the center of each triangle, add a teaspoon of jam and a small amount of ground walnuts. Roll the crescents from the base of the triangle to the tip, forming a roll. If you prefer the strip version, you can cut the dough into long strips, which you can fill and roll.

Step 5: Baking
Place the crescents on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or greased. Make sure to leave a little space between them, as they will expand slightly during baking. Place the tray in the oven and bake the crescents for 15-20 minutes. It is important to monitor them, as we want them to remain white, not golden. Overbaking will dry them out and change their taste.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
After the crescents are baked, remove them from the oven and cover them with a kitchen towel for a few minutes. This will help retain moisture and make the crescents softer. Once they have cooled slightly, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Serving suggestions:
Little crescents with jam and walnuts are delicious served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also experiment with different types of fillings, such as chocolate or vanilla cream, to vary the recipe.

Nutritional benefits:
Little crescents with jam and walnuts are a source of carbohydrates from flour, sugar, and jam, providing a quick energy boost. Walnuts add healthy fats and protein, being beneficial for heart and brain health. However, it is best to consume these delicacies in moderation, considering their caloric content.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of jam?
Of course! You can experiment with any jam you like, such as apricot, raspberry, or even orange marmalade for a citrus note.

2. How can I store the crescents?
The crescents are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you keep them in the fridge, you can warm them slightly before consuming.

3. Can I freeze the crescents?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked crescents after shaping them, and bake them directly from the freezer. This is an excellent option for having a delicious snack on hand.

Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, these little crescents with jam and walnuts are easy to make and will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!