Love letters with walnuts

Love Letters with Nuts

Who hasn't been seduced by the warm aroma of freshly baked cookies? "Love Letters with Nuts" is a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring back cherished memories filled with nostalgia. These cookies are delicate, with a soft interior and a rich nut filling, perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee. I invite you to discover with me how to prepare them!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 30-40 cookies

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 6 egg yolks
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- Flour – as needed (approximately 300 g, but it’s good to have a little extra to work with the dough)

*For the filling:*
- 6 egg whites
- 250 g sugar
- 250 g ground nuts
- Rum essence – to taste

*For decoration:*
- Powdered sugar – to preference

The story behind the recipe:

Over time, nut desserts have been considered refined delicacies, often prepared for special occasions. The nut, with its distinctive aroma and crunchy texture, adds a touch of elegance to any cookie. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, having the power to bring smiles to the faces of loved ones.

Preparation techniques:

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the yolks from the whites. It is essential that the egg whites are beaten well, so make sure there is no trace of yolk in them. Place the egg whites in the fridge to cool, which will help achieve a firmer foam.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the yolks with the soft butter. Use a spatula or mixer to achieve a creamy composition. Gradually add the flour until you obtain a firm, but not too hard, dough. It is important that the dough is easy to shape but does not stick to your hands.

3. Forming the "bullets": Divide the dough into approximately 60 pieces the size of small meatballs. Place them on a tray and put them in the fridge for at least 5-6 hours or, ideally, overnight. This step is crucial, as a cold dough will roll out more easily.

4. Preparing the filling: The next day, take the egg whites out of the fridge and beat them until stiff, gradually adding the sugar. Continue beating until you achieve a glossy meringue. Carefully incorporate the ground nuts and rum essence. Gently mix to maintain the air in the meringue.

5. Assembling the cookies: Preheat the oven to the lowest temperature. Take out only a few "bullets" of dough that you wish to roll out. Use extra flour to prevent sticking. Roll out each piece of dough, spread with the nut filling, and roll them into rows. Place them in an ungreased tray or lined with parchment paper.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the cookies bake for 25-30 minutes until golden. It is important not to bake them at too high a temperature, as you risk drying them out.

7. Decorating: Once the cookies are ready, let them cool slightly, then dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant and delicious appearance.

Useful tips:

- If you want to give an even more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla essence to the nut filling.
- Choose fresh, finely ground nuts to achieve a smooth and even texture. You can even lightly roast them before adding them to the filling to enhance the flavor.
- These cookies are excellent the next day, but they are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace the nuts with other types of nuts or seeds?
Yes, you can experiment with almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds, but keep in mind that each ingredient will bring a different flavor to the cookies.

2. What can I do with the leftover egg whites?
The remaining egg whites can be used to make meringues or even a chocolate mousse.

3. How can I store the cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

4. What drinks pair best with these cookies?
A cup of flavored coffee or an Earl Grey tea are the perfect companions to enjoy these delicious cookies.

Possible variations:

- You can add chocolate chips to the nut filling for a delicious contrast.
- If you want a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling.

In conclusion, "Love Letters with Nuts" is more than just a recipe; it is an invitation to share moments of joy and create memories with loved ones. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and start making these delicious cookies! I assure you that each bite will be a true declaration of love!