Sweet pita

Sweet Nut Pie – A Recipe from the Heart

When it comes to desserts, nothing is more comforting and full of memories than a sweet nut pie. This recipe is a culinary journey through traditions and stories, evoking the flavors and warmth of grandma's home. It is a dessert that combines the crunchy texture of the layers with a rich nut filling and a sweet syrup that enriches every bite. I will show you step by step how to prepare this delicacy so that you impress everyone.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 250 g flour
- 100 ml oil (you can use sunflower oil or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- a pinch of salt
- water as needed (about 50-60 ml)

For the filling:
- 250 g nuts (if you prefer a more intense taste, you can use 150 g)
- you can add 50 g of sugar for extra sweetness

For the syrup:
- 100 ml water
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, but recommended for a richer taste)
- grated zest of one orange (this ingredient adds a fresh note)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon rum (optional, but highly appreciated)

Preparation:

1. Making the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt. Add the oil and gradually the water, mixing with a spatula or your hands. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. This is an essential step; a well-kneaded dough will yield a fluffy and delicious pie.

2. Resting the dough: Let the dough rest for about 15-20 minutes, covered with a damp towel. This will allow it to relax and be much easier to roll out.

3. Preparing the filling: Chop the nuts using a food processor or a chopper. If you want, you can roast the nuts beforehand to enhance the flavor. Mix the nuts with the sugar (if you decide to add it) and set aside.

4. Rolling out the dough: Divide the dough into 4 or 5 equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a thin, even layer. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; every pie has its charm.

5. Filling the layers: Brush each layer with a small amount of oil and evenly sprinkle the nut filling. Roll each layer tightly, then shape it into a spiral, making sure it doesn’t unravel during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a greased baking tray, place the formed pies, leaving a little space between them for even baking. Bake for 45 minutes, checking them occasionally, as baking time may vary depending on the oven.

7. Preparing the syrup: While the pies are baking, you can prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the water, honey, orange zest, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Bring to a simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the rum at the end for a special flavor.

8. Finishing the dessert: After the pies are baked and have a beautiful golden color, take them out of the oven and pour the hot syrup over them, ensuring that each piece is well covered. Let them cool and absorb the syrup for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as the syrup will transform each bite into an explosion of flavors.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with different fillings by adding raisins, almonds, or even a splash of cocoa to the nut filling.
- Serving: This sweet pie is served warm or at room temperature. It can be accompanied by a scoop of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the dessert.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of sweet nut pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the syrup. Nuts are rich in healthy fats, proteins, and antioxidants, making this dessert a more nutritious choice compared to other sweets.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of nuts? Yes, you can try hazelnuts or pistachios for a different flavor.
- What do I do if the dough is too soft? Add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it; an overly dry dough will result in a tough pie.

This sweet nut pie is not just a dessert, but a story you share with your loved ones. Being a simple yet characterful recipe, it is perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of those who taste it. So don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the sweet aromas of your kitchen. Enjoy!