Fluffy packages with fruit spread

Fluffy Pastries with Plum Jam – a Sweet and Aromatic Delight

Get ready to indulge in a simple and delicious recipe: fluffy pastries filled with plum jam! This quick dessert is perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones, whether served at a festive meal or as a sweet snack at any time of the day. With a fluffy dough and aromatic jam filling, this dessert will transform your kitchen into a little corner of paradise.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20-30 minutes
Total time: 45-60 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 pastries

Necessary ingredients:
- 400 g puff pastry (you can also use store-bought to save time)
- 2-3 tablespoons plum jam (for an extra flavor boost, I recommend mixing the jam with a bit of cinnamon)
- 200 g powdered sugar (to sprinkle over the warm pastries)

About the ingredients:

Puff pastry is the secret that transforms these pastries into a delicacy. It is made from thin layers of dough that rise and become crispy during baking, providing the perfect texture. Plum jam, on the other hand, is a traditional preserve full of flavor that adds depth and aroma to the dessert. Cinnamon, with its warm aroma, perfectly complements the taste of the plum, bringing a touch of magic to every bite.

A bit of history:

Pastries with jam are inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize the use of simple yet tasty ingredients. This dessert has often been prepared in Romanian households, ingeniously utilizing seasonal fruits like plums. Plum jam is made by slow-cooking the fruit, preserving all the flavors and nutrients. Thus, pastries with jam are not only a treat but also a part of culinary heritage.

Step by step:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200 °C. It is important for the temperature to be correct to achieve crispy pastries.

2. Prepare the dough: On a clean surface, roll out the puff pastry. Use a knife or a rolling cutter to cut rectangles about 10x8 cm. If you prefer, you can also cut circles, ensuring they are of equal size.

3. Add the filling: On one side of each rectangle (or in the center of the circles), place 1-2 tablespoons of plum jam. Make sure not to overfill, or the pastries may open during baking.

4. Pack: If working with rectangles, fold the dough in half so the filling is inside. Gently press the edges with your fingers to seal the packets. If using circles, fold them and press the edges with a fork to ensure they are well closed.

5. Baking: Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes or until golden and fluffy, and the delicious smell fills your kitchen.

6. Finishing: When the pastries are ready, take them out of the oven and, while still warm, dust them with powdered sugar. This will add a sweet contrast and make the dessert look even more appetizing.

7. Serving: Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect indulgence moment.

Practical tips:
- Variations of filling: Instead of plum jam, you can try peach or apple jam. Also, a combination of different preserves will add an interesting note.
- Alternative sweeteners: If you want to reduce the amount of sugar, you can use a natural sweetener or coconut sugar.
- For an even more appealing look: You can brush the pastries with a beaten egg before baking to achieve a golden and shiny crust.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use homemade puff pastry? Absolutely! If you feel adventurous, you can try making the dough from scratch. It’s a simple process but requires a bit more time.
- Can I freeze the pastries? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pastries. Place them on a tray, freeze them, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
- Can I replace the jam with something else? Certainly! You can use melted chocolate, fruit jam, or sweet cheese mixed with raisins for a savory version.

Nutritional benefits:
Plum jam is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, with its benefits recognized for centuries. These pastries, although delicious, should be consumed in moderation, especially due to the sugar content from the powdered sugar used at the end. However, they can be a healthier choice than other processed desserts, considering the simple and natural ingredients they contain.

In conclusion, fluffy pastries with jam are an excellent way to bring a touch of joy to every day. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you will create a dessert that will impress any guest. Don't hesitate to experiment with different flavors and combinations, and remember to share the recipe with your friends! We look forward to seeing you on our blog for more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration!