Honeycombs with cream

Cream Honeycombs: The Sweet Delight That Will Win Your Heart

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12-15

Cream honeycombs are a traditional dessert, full of freshness and flavor, that evokes pleasant childhood memories. These pastries, known by various names in different corners of the world, are often enjoyed at parties or special occasions. With a light texture and delicious cream, honeycombs are not just a dessert, but a taste experience that will make you return to this recipe time and again.

In this captivating recipe, I will show you step by step how to prepare cream honeycombs, adding useful details and tips to achieve a perfect result.

Ingredients for the honeycomb composition:
- 8 large eggs (preferably at room temperature for better beating)
- 200 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 250 ml sweet milk (whole milk is ideal for a creamy texture)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower oil is a good choice, but you can experiment with olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- A pinch of salt (helps balance the sweetness)
- A pinch of baking powder (to make the honeycombs fluffy)
- 500-600 g flour (make sure it is sifted to avoid lumps)

Ingredients for the cream:
- 500 ml milk (almond or coconut milk can be an interesting alternative)
- 150 g sugar (adjust to taste)
- A pinch of pudding (vanilla or chocolate, depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons flour (to thicken the cream)
- 4 tablespoons brandy or liqueur (optional, but adds a distinct flavor)

Step by step to prepare cream honeycombs:

1. Preparing the honeycomb composition:
Start by separating the eggs. Beat the egg whites until they become frothy, then gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you get a shiny meringue. In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the milk and oil. Carefully combine the two mixtures, using a spatula to retain the air in the meringue.

2. Adding the dry ingredients:
Sift the flour and baking powder over the wet mixture and gently mix until you achieve a homogeneous dough. Make sure not to overmix, as this can make the honeycombs dense and heavy.

3. Baking the honeycombs:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking pan with oil, using a brush to evenly cover the surface. Pour the mixture into the pan and let it bake for 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 15 minutes of baking to avoid affecting the volume.

4. Preparing the cream:
In a saucepan, combine the sugar, pudding powder, flour, and milk. Mix well to avoid lumps and place the saucepan over medium heat. Continue to stir constantly until the cream thickens. Once it reaches the desired consistency, remove from heat and add the cubed butter, stirring until completely melted. Add the brandy or liqueur for extra flavor.

5. Assembling the honeycombs:
Once the honeycombs have cooled completely, cut them into squares or triangles, as preferred. Use a spatula to fill each piece with cream. You can leave them in the fridge until the next day to allow the flavors to blend and achieve a more pleasant texture.

Useful tips:
- If you want a fluffier cream, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream or mascarpone.
- Experiment with different flavors for the cream by adding vanilla, almond, or orange essences.
- Honeycombs can be served with a warm chocolate sauce or fresh fruit for a delicious contrast.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Cream honeycombs are an indulgent dessert, with a variable calorie content depending on the ingredients used. A serving can contain approximately 250-300 calories. They offer protein from the eggs and calcium from the milk, but it is important to consume them in moderation due to the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace the eggs?: Yes, you can use an egg substitute (e.g., banana puree or a mixture of water with flaxseeds) for a vegan version, but the textures will vary.
- How can I store the honeycombs?: They store well in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it is best to consume them fresh.

Serving suggestions:
Cream honeycombs pair wonderfully with aromatic coffee or relaxing tea. You can also add a splash of whipped cream or some fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor.

So, don't hesitate to try this cream honeycomb recipe! It's simple, delicious, and will surely become your favorite among desserts. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent in the kitchen!