Nut croissants

Nut Rolls - A Quick and Flavorful Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 30 rolls

The history of nut rolls is lost in the mists of time, being a popular dessert in many cultures, often associated with celebrations and moments of joy. These small, tender, and aromatic delights are perfect for a quick snack or to be served on special occasions. In this recipe, we will explore together how to prepare nut rolls, a simple yet impressive dessert that will bring a smile to everyone's face.

Ingredients:
- 350 g flour
- 200 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Grated zest of one lemon (for added flavor)
- 150 g ground nuts (you can also use hazelnuts or almonds, depending on your preference)
- Sour cream (as needed, about 4-5 tablespoons, to achieve a suitable dough)
- Vanilla powdered sugar (for sprinkling at the end)

First Step: Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, add the flour and diced butter. Use your fingers to knead the flour with the butter until the mixture resembles fine sand. This step is essential as the butter must be well incorporated into the flour to achieve a fluffy texture.

2. Add the baking powder, sugar, salt, and grated lemon zest. Mix the dry ingredients well to distribute them evenly.

3. Start adding the sour cream, one tablespoon at a time, mixing continuously. Continue adding sour cream until the dough becomes homogeneous and easy to shape. Do not add too much sour cream, as you want a dough that is easy to roll out but not sticky.

Second Step: Shaping the Rolls

4. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet about 3 mm thick. This thickness will ensure that the rolls are tender and bake evenly.

5. Cut the sheet of dough into squares or triangles, depending on the desired shape. If you want larger rolls, you can cut larger triangles, but make sure to bake them a little longer.

6. Place a teaspoon of ground nuts at the base of each triangle. Roll the triangle from the base to the tip, ensuring the filling stays inside. Place the rolls on the prepared baking tray, sprinkled with flour, leaving a small space between them to allow for expansion during baking.

Third Step: Baking and Finishing

7. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for about 25 minutes, or until they turn golden and slightly browned. The aroma that will fill your kitchen will be truly tempting!

8. Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. While they are still warm, roll them in the vanilla powdered sugar to achieve a sweet and aromatic crust that will make every bite delicious.

Serving and Variations

Nut rolls are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them alongside a cup of fragrant tea or coffee, making each meal a special moment. If you want to customize them, try adding cocoa to the dough or using other types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts.

For a seasonal variation, you can also add cinnamon to the nut mixture, which will give them an even deeper flavor and a special aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but keep in mind that butter provides a superior flavor and texture.

2. How can I keep the rolls fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can freeze them, but make sure to pack them well.

3. Can I use other types of fillings?
Of course! You can experiment with jams, chocolate, or even dried fruits. Each variation will bring a unique touch to the rolls.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each nut roll has approximately 100 calories, depending on their size and the ingredients used. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a nutritious choice. Additionally, the lemon zest adds essential vitamins and a boost of antioxidants.

Practical Tips

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a homogeneous dough.
- If you have a food processor, you can use it to quickly knead the dough, saving time and effort.
- Experiment with different types of powdered sugar (e.g., vanilla-flavored) to add a unique touch at the end.

Now that you've discovered how to prepare nut rolls, it's time to get your hands busy! With every bite, you'll bring a touch of joy and nostalgia to every moment spent with loved ones. Enjoy!