Walnut cookies

Nutty Puff Pastries – A Childhood Delight

Who doesn’t remember the warm aroma of freshly baked pastries in grandma's house? These nutty puff pastries are a cherished recipe passed down from my mother, blending tradition with exquisite taste. Perfect for indulgent moments or to impress guests, this pastry is easy to prepare yet full of flavor.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Rising time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-30 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16

Essential ingredients:
- 400 g flour
- 400 g sugar
- 4 eggs
- 150 g ground walnuts
- 250 g margarine
- A pinch of salt
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 20 g warm milk
- 100 g sour cream

Preparing the nutty puff pastries

Step 1: Activating the yeast
In a small cup, rub the 25 g of yeast with a teaspoon of sugar. This will help activate the yeast, giving the pastry an airy texture. Then add 20 g of warm milk and mix until the yeast is completely dissolved. Let it rest for 10 minutes until a foam forms.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cubed margarine (make sure it’s at room temperature for easier incorporation), salt, egg yolks (separate the egg whites for the next step), and sour cream. Add the yeast mixture and knead until you obtain a supple and non-sticky dough. If the dough is too wet, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 3: Rising the dough
Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes. It will increase in volume, becoming airy and fluffy.

Step 4: Preparing the walnut foam
Meanwhile, in a saucepan, beat the egg whites with sugar over a double boiler for about 30 minutes until you obtain a firm and glossy foam. Add the ground walnuts and gently fold with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the foam.

Step 5: Assembling the pastries
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll each part into a rectangular sheet, about the thickness of a knife’s back. Spread the walnut foam evenly over each sheet, then roll it lengthwise to form a log.

Step 6: Cutting and baking
Cut the logs into slices about 2 cm thick and place them in a greased and floured baking tray. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20-30 minutes until golden and fragrant.

Step 7: Finishing and serving
Once completely cooled, dust the pastries with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. This detail not only enhances the appearance but also adds a touch of sweetness.

Useful tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature; this will help achieve a better texture.
- You can substitute margarine with butter for a richer taste.
- If you prefer a healthier version, you can reduce the sugar or use natural sweeteners.
- Experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to offer a different flavor.

Delicious pairings:
These nutty puff pastries pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce can be a wonderful accompaniment.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of nutty puff pastries (about 2 slices) contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a good source of energy due to the nut content. Nuts are rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, offering multiple health benefits, including improved heart and brain health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need about 8-10 g. Mix it with the flour before adding the other ingredients.

2. How can I keep the pastry fresh for a longer time?
Keep the pastries in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be consumed even after a few days, but the taste is best when fresh.

3. Can I prepare the dough a day in advance?
Of course! You can prepare the dough and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Make sure to take it out of the fridge about an hour before shaping, so it softens a bit.

These nutty puff pastries are not just a delicious recipe but also a small piece of a family's culinary tradition. Whether you prepare them for yourself, family, or a special event, each bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, put on your chef's apron and let’s start the culinary adventure!