Snails with walnut and cinnamon

Walnut and Cinnamon Snails: A Fluffy and Aromatic Dessert

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12 snails

Discover the magic of the perfect dessert for any time of the day! These walnut and cinnamon snails are an ideal choice for a sweet snack, a savory breakfast, or even an elegant dessert. This recipe, with a fluffy dough and a rich walnut filling, will delight your senses and fill your home with delicious aromas. Plus, they are so easy to make that even the most inexperienced cooks will succeed in preparing them!

A Brief History of Snails

Snails, also known as "sweet indulgences," have a long tradition, being prepared in various cultures around the world. They are usually associated with festive moments, family gatherings, or simply personal indulgence. The aroma of cinnamon and walnut evokes pleasant and warm memories, while the fluffiness of the dough makes you feel at home.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of oil
- 100 g of butter
- 25 g of fresh yeast
- 250 ml of lukewarm milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of lemon essence
- 600 g of flour

For the filling:
- 100 g of butter (for spreading)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 150 g of ground walnuts
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

For the syrup:
- 150 ml of milk
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of rum essence

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the yeast
Start your culinary adventure by activating the yeast. In a bowl, add the fresh yeast and mash it with a tablespoon of sugar until it becomes liquefied. This will help achieve a fluffy dough. Add the lukewarm milk and a small amount of flour (about 50 g) to create a yeast starter with a consistency similar to sour cream. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rise for 10 minutes until its volume doubles.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
Once the yeast starter has risen, add the two eggs, salt, lemon essence, oil, melted butter, and the remaining flour. Knead the dough until it becomes soft and elastic, similar to brioche dough. Cover it again and let it rise for another 15 minutes in a warm place, away from drafts.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter with the sugar, ground walnuts, and cinnamon. This rich filling will add a delicious flavor to your snails.

Step 4: Forming the snails
After the dough has risen, divide it into two. Roll each part into a rectangular sheet about one finger thick. Spread each sheet with half of the filling mixture, then roll them tightly to form a cylinder. Cut each cylinder into slices about 3-4 cm thick and place them in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Baking the snails
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the snails for 15 minutes, or until golden. Meanwhile, prepare the syrup: in a small saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and rum essence, bringing the mixture to a boil, then let it simmer for a few minutes.

Step 6: Finishing
After 15 minutes of baking, remove the tray from the oven and pour a tablespoon of syrup over each snail. Put them back in the oven for another 10 minutes to caramelize slightly and absorb the syrup's aroma.

Practical Tips

- Make sure the milk is lukewarm and not hot when adding the yeast; otherwise, it will be destroyed.
- You can also use other types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to vary the flavor of the snails.
- If you want a touch of freshness, add lemon or orange zest to the walnut filling.
- These delicious treats can be stored well in an airtight container for a few days, but they are best enjoyed fresh!

Delicious Combinations

To turn these snails into an even more enjoyable culinary experience, you can serve them with a cup of aromatic tea or an espresso coffee. Additionally, vanilla ice cream can work wonders alongside these warm snails, creating a perfect contrast between hot and cold.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

One snail has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. They are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy, but remember to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Walnuts add a boost of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, thus benefiting from a portion of essential nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, making sure to adjust the amount (about 7 g of dry yeast for 25 g of fresh yeast).

2. How can I replace the butter in the recipe?
You can use margarine or coconut oil for a healthier option.

3. What should I do if the dough doesn’t rise?
Check if the yeast is active and if the dough was left long enough in a warm place.

4. Can I freeze the snails?
Yes, you can freeze the snails after they have completely cooled. You can reheat them in the oven before serving.

In conclusion, walnut and cinnamon snails are a dessert that combines tradition with exquisite taste. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, they will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends to spread the joy of cooking and delicious flavors!