Quince jam cookies

Quince Jam Pillows - A Family Delicacy

Are you looking for a recipe that combines tradition with the sweet and slightly tangy flavor of quince jam? Quince jam pillows are the perfect choice for any occasion, from a quick snack to the ideal dessert for a family meal. These little treats, with a soft texture and delicious taste, are a symbol of home cooking, reminding us of the days spent in the kitchen with loved ones. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 16 pillows

Ingredients

- 200 g rendered fat (melted and then cooled)
- 460 g flour
- 1 and 1/2 packets baking powder with saffron
- 1 packet lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 10 tablespoons water
- A pinch of salt
- Quince jam (enough to fill the pillows)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

A Brief History

Quince jam pillows have deep roots in culinary tradition, often prepared in households as a way to use seasonal fruits. Quince jam, rich in pectin, offers a distinct flavor, perfectly balancing sweetness and acidity. These delights are often served on festive occasions, but they can also be enjoyed on ordinary days, bringing a touch of joy to every bite.

Preparing the Dough

1. Melting the Fat: Start by melting the rendered fat, then let it cool slightly. This will give the pillows a tender texture. An important tip is not to let it become completely solid before using it, as this can affect the dough's consistency.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled fat, salt, baking powder, and lemon zest. Mix well to combine the ingredients. The lemon zest not only adds flavor but also a touch of freshness.

3. Adding the Vinegar: Add the vinegar to the mixture. This will help activate the baking powder, making the dough fluffier.

4. Incorporating the Water: Continue by adding the water, mixing gently. Here you can adjust the amount of water based on the humidity of your flour. The dough should be non-sticky but moist enough to be kneaded.

5. Kneading: Start gradually adding the sifted flour, kneading with your hands until you obtain a smooth and non-sticky dough. If you feel that the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as this could make the pillows tough.

6. Resting the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Forming the Pillows

1. Rolling Out the Dough: After the dough has rested, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until you achieve a thin sheet, about 5 mm thick.

2. Cutting Rectangles: Use a knife or a dough cutter to form rectangles of about 8 cm x 5 cm.

3. Filling with Jam: On each rectangle, add a teaspoon of quince jam. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam will expand during baking.

4. Rolling the Pillows: Roll each rectangle, making sure the edge is well sealed to prevent the jam from leaking during baking.

5. Cutting the Pillows: After rolling, cut each roll into 4 pieces. These will become your delicious pillows.

Baking

1. Preparing the Baking Tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. This step will help prevent sticking and make cleaning the tray easier after baking.

2. Arranging the Pillows: Place the pillows on the tray, leaving a little space between them, as they will expand during baking.

3. Adding a Water Dish: Place a small dish of water under the tray to prevent the bottoms of the pillows from burning. This will create a humid environment in the oven, contributing to a tender texture.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the pillows for 30-35 minutes, or until they turn lightly golden. Every oven is different, so it's a good idea to check them after 25 minutes.

Finishing and Serving

1. Cooling the Pillows: Once the pillows are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.

2. Powdered Sugar: While they are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar to give them an attractive appearance and a sweet taste.

Serving: Quince jam pillows are perfect to be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can also offer them as a dessert at a festive meal or as a sweet snack for kids. They are excellent both warm and cold, retaining their flavor and texture.

Variations and Tips

- Alternative Jams: Instead of quince jam, you can experiment with other jams, such as apricot, raspberry, or blackberry, for a variety of flavors.
- Adding Spices: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
- Crunchy Texture: If you prefer a crunchier exterior, you can brush the pillows with a beaten egg before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use butter instead of rendered fat?
Yes, you can use butter, but the final texture will be different. Rendered fat provides a distinct tenderness.

2. How can I keep the pillows fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can freeze them for longer storage.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but make sure to adjust the amount of water, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

Nutritional Benefits

These pillows are a source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Quince jam is rich in antioxidants, helping to strengthen the immune system. By using rendered fat instead of butter, the saturated fat content is reduced, making the recipe more heart-friendly.

In conclusion, quince jam pillows are not only an easy recipe to make but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of tradition and joy into your kitchen. Try this recipe and enjoy every bite!