Plum jam croissants

Plum Jam Crescent Rolls - A Traditional Delicacy

If you're looking for a dessert recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen, plum jam crescent rolls are the perfect choice. These delicious treats, with a sweet and aromatic filling, are ideal for any occasion. Whether you choose to enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or offer them to friends at a party, these crescent rolls will evoke admiration and appetite.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 30-35 minutes
- Total: 1 hour
- Number of servings: Approximately 30 crescent rolls

Ingredients
- For the dough:
- 900 g flour
- 300 g lard (or butter, if you prefer)
- 3 egg yolks
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 150 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Sour cream (optional, for a richer dough)

- For the filling:
- Plum jam (enough to fill the crescent rolls)

- For dusting:
- Powdered sugar
- 1 sachet of vanilla sugar (for extra flavor)

A Brief History
Plum jam crescent rolls are a traditional dessert that blends history with culinary tradition. Over time, they have been lovingly made in households in rural areas, where plum jam was a staple ingredient. It is said that they were prepared for holidays or family gatherings, bringing a sense of warmth and belonging.

Preparation Techniques
Here’s how you can prepare these delicious crescent rolls, step by step:

1. Activating the yeast:
Start by warming the milk slightly so that it is lukewarm but not hot. Add the sugar and crumbled yeast, mixing well. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to activate the yeast and achieve a fluffy dough.

2. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour with the cubed lard and salt. Use your fingers to incorporate the lard into the flour until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Add the yeast mixture and egg yolks. Start kneading the dough with your hands, adding sour cream if you want a richer dough. Continue kneading for 10-15 minutes until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough.

3. Dividing the dough:
Once the dough is ready, divide it into 2-3 equal parts. Cover them with a clean towel and let them rest for about 15 minutes. This step will help develop the flavors and make the dough easier to roll out.

4. Shaping the crescent rolls:
On a floured surface, start rolling each part of the dough into a thin sheet. Cut the sheet into squares of approximately 5x5 cm. On each square, place a teaspoon of plum jam and fold the corners, forming a crescent roll. You can shape them in your preferred style – either crescent-shaped or twisted, for a more varied appearance.

5. Baking:
Place the crescent rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the crescent rolls for 30-35 minutes or until they turn golden and fluffy.

6. Finishing:
After removing them from the oven, let the crescent rolls cool slightly. While they are still warm, roll them in the powdered sugar mixed with vanilla sugar. This step will not only give them a more attractive appearance but also a delicious aroma.

Practical Tips
- Flour: Use high-quality flour to achieve the best results. Type 000 or 550 flour is ideal for a fluffy dough.
- Lard vs. Butter: If you prefer a richer taste, you can use butter instead of lard. However, lard provides a flakier texture.
- The Jam: Make sure to use high-quality plum jam, preferably homemade or made from natural ingredients, to achieve an authentic taste.
- Variations: You can experiment with different fillings, such as fruit jams or ground nuts mixed with sugar, to create unique versions of the crescent rolls.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Replace the fresh yeast with about 8 g of dry yeast, activating it according to the instructions on the package.

2. How can I store the crescent rolls?
Store the crescent rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

3. What drink pairs best with the crescent rolls?
A cup of black tea or a flavored coffee pairs perfectly with these crescent rolls, bringing a balance between the sweetness of the dessert and the bitterness of the drink.

Nutritional Benefits
Plum jam crescent rolls provide a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy. Plum jam contains antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet. However, consume them in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Personal Note
I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, preparing plum jam crescent rolls for holidays. The sweet aroma of the jam and the smell of freshly baked dough always brought smiles to our faces. I hope you also experience the joy of cooking these delights, turning them into a family tradition.

Enjoy these plum jam crescent rolls and savor every bite! Bon appétit!