Frogs

Tender Walnut Crescents - A Delicacy for Unforgettable Moments

Who doesn't love to savor a dessert that brings back childhood memories? These tender walnut crescents are the kind of treat that invites us to enjoy every bite. This recipe, which I lovingly received from my friend Rocsi, is perfect for bringing a touch of nostalgia to any day. Although it may seem a bit tedious, the preparation process brings immense satisfaction and transforms into a pleasant activity, perfect to be done together with loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:
- 400 g sour cream
- 200 g lard (or butter, if you prefer)
- 150 g butter
- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 vanilla essence
- 560 g flour
- Powdered sugar for decoration
- ~200 g ground walnuts

Step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream with the lard (or butter) and mix well until the mixture is homogeneous. This is the perfect time to add the four egg yolks and the vanilla essence. Mix again until well blended. This combination will make the dough so delicate and delicious!

Step 2: Sifting the flour
Sift the flour into a separate bowl to eliminate any lumps and to aerate it. This step is essential for obtaining a light and fluffy dough. Then, incorporate the flour into the wet mixture, kneading gently. The dough should become elastic and no longer stick to your hands. If necessary, add a little extra flour until you achieve the desired consistency.

Step 3: Dividing the dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into six roughly equal parts. This step is important to ensure that each crescent will be the same size and will bake evenly.

Step 4: Forming the rolls
Roll out each piece of dough into a thin sheet, then brush it with melted butter. Roll the dough along the long side to form a log. Do the same with all six pieces. These logs will be the base for our delicious crescents. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them chill in the refrigerator overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the dough to rest and become easier to handle.

Step 5: Preparing the filling
The next day, prepare the filling. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until a light foam forms. Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until you achieve a glossy and firm meringue. Finally, carefully fold in the ground walnuts, mixing gently to avoid destroying the airy texture of the meringue.

Step 6: Forming the crescents
Take a log of dough out of the refrigerator and cut it into slices about 1 cm thick. Gently press each slice with your finger to flatten it, then roll it into a round shape. Place a teaspoon of the walnut filling in the center of each slice, then fold the dough to cover the filling, twisting the ends like a candy wrapper. This detail not only gives a nice appearance to the crescents but also helps keep the filling inside.

Step 7: Baking
Place the crescents on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them to allow for rising. Bake at moderate heat (about 180°C) for 25-30 minutes or until they become lightly golden on top. The delicious aromas that will spread throughout the house will make the waiting even more enjoyable!

Step 8: Finishing
Once baked, remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, roll them well in powdered sugar for an elegant appearance and sweet taste. These crescents are best served warm or at room temperature, but the longer they sit, the more tender and flavorful they become.

Practical tips:
- If you don’t have ground walnuts, you can use almonds or hazelnuts to diversify the filling.
- You can add a bit of cinnamon to the filling for an even richer flavor.
- If you want to keep the crescents for a longer time, you can freeze them. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or place them in airtight freezer bags.

Nutritional benefits:
Walnut crescents are not just a treat, but also a source of nutrients. Walnuts are known for their high content of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. Additionally, sour cream and lard add a dose of calcium and healthy fats. However, like any dessert, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace lard with butter?
Yes, you can use butter instead of lard, but the texture will be slightly different. Lard gives a unique flakiness to the crescents.

2. How can I make them less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use unsweetened nuts.

3. Can the crescents be made with other fillings?
Absolutely! You can try fillings with chocolate, jam, or even sweet cheese, depending on your preferences.

4. What is the ideal way to store them?
The crescents can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for a longer period.

These tender walnut crescents are perfect to be enjoyed with a cup of tea or aromatic coffee. Moreover, they are ideal for parties or gatherings with friends, bringing a touch of warmth and familiarity to any occasion. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the moments spent together in the kitchen!