Shortbread with lard and yogurt

Butter and Yogurt Crescents: A Homemade Delicacy

When it comes to simple yet flavorful desserts, butter and yogurt crescents are definitely a top choice. These little delights, with a flaky dough and rich filling, are perfect for enjoying with coffee among friends or adding a touch of sweetness to your days. Plus, making these crescents is a true pleasure, and the result is always rewarding. Let’s start our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 20-24 crescents

Ingredients for the dough:
- 200 g lard (or butter, if you prefer a richer taste)
- 200 g yogurt (choose natural yogurt, without additives)
- 1 egg
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Zest of one lemon (for a touch of freshness)
- 500-550 g flour (sifted)
- A pinch of salt

Ingredients for the filling:
- 1 bowl of ground walnuts (about 200 g)
- 1 cup hot milk
- 5-6 tablespoons sugar (depending on preferences)
- 2 teaspoons rum essence (for an inviting aroma)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa (for a flavor contrast)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Preparing the Dough:
1. In a large bowl, add the lard (or butter) and mix it with the egg, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use a mixer or spatula until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous mixture. This is the base that will give the crescents a delicate texture.
2. Add the yogurt, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, continuing to mix. The aroma of vanilla and lemon will provide a refined taste to the dough.
3. Finally, incorporate the baking soda, then start adding the flour gradually, sifting it. Mix until the dough becomes non-sticky but still easy to shape. Adjust the amount of flour according to the humidity of the yogurt.
4. Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp towel and let it rest for 20-30 minutes. This will help relax the gluten, making it easier to shape.

Preparing the Filling:
1. In a bowl, add the ground walnuts. Gradually pour in the hot milk, stirring constantly until you obtain a thick paste. This will ensure the filling is soft but not too liquid.
2. Add the sugar, rum essence, and cocoa, mixing well. Make sure everything is well incorporated. Your filling is now ready!

Shaping the Crescents:
1. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface to prevent sticking. Tear off a piece of dough and shape it into a rectangle, then cut small squares (about 5x5 cm).
2. On each square, add a teaspoon of filling in the center. Then, bring together two opposite corners of the dough to form a crescent. You can leave them open or close them completely, depending on your preference.
3. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the formed crescents in a single layer. Make sure to leave a little space between them, as they will puff up while baking.

Baking:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray with crescents in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are lightly golden. This is when your house will fill with delicious aromas!
2. Once they are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes on a rack. Then, dust them with powdered sugar for a special touch.

Storing the Crescents:
Butter and yogurt crescents store perfectly in a container with a lid or in a bowl covered with plastic wrap. They will remain delicious and soft for a few days, but they are so good that they might disappear quickly!

Nutritional Benefits:
These crescents are a good source of energy, thanks to the walnuts and yogurt, which provide proteins and healthy fats. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, while yogurt contributes to digestive health.

Variations and Suggestions:
- You can experiment with different fillings, such as fruit jams, chocolate, or ground almonds.
- If you want a lighter version, you can replace the lard with coconut oil or butter at room temperature.
- For a special touch, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I replace yogurt with another ingredient?
Yes, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
2. How can I make the crescents less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use unsalted nuts to balance the taste.
3. Can I freeze the crescents?
Yes, you can freeze the crescents before baking. This way, you can bake them directly from the freezer.

Serving:
These crescents are perfect to be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can also add a spoonful of fruit jam on the plate for a contrast of flavors.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try making these delicious butter and yogurt crescents! Whether you enjoy them with family or give them as a gift, they will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!