Dessert - Walnuts with lemon cream by Nicoleta E. - Recipia
Captivating Lemon Cream Nut Recipe

Lemon cream nuts are a sweet delight that combines a crunchy shell texture with a fine, aromatic cream, perfect for satisfying any sweet craving. This recipe has been beloved by many generations and is often associated with moments of celebration and joy. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, these nuts are an excellent choice.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 30 nuts

Ingredients:

For the nut shells:
- 550 g flour
- 150 g sugar
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 5 g baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 2 eggs

For the lemon cream:
- 300 ml milk
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon (preferably organic)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the nut shells:
- Start by mixing the eggs with the sugar and butter. Ensure the butter is soft, as this will help achieve a smooth mixture. Use an electric mixer to obtain a creamy and airy composition.
- Sift the flour and mix it with the baking powder. This will ensure a slightly fluffy texture without lumps.
- Incorporate the flour mixture into the egg composition, mixing gently until you obtain an elastic dough. Remember, over-kneading will lead to harder nut shells, so knead only as much as necessary.

2. Shaping the shells:
- Form equal-sized balls of dough. It is recommended to use a spoon to ensure consistent sizes. My advice is to test with one or two balls to see if the size fits the nut press.
- Grease the nut press with a little oil to prevent the dough from sticking. Then, place the press over the flame of the stove to heat it well.

3. Baking the shells:
- Once the press is heated, place a ball of dough in each mold. Close the press and bake over the flame for about 2 minutes on each side. Check occasionally to avoid burning.
- After they are done, remove the shells from the press and let them cool completely. Repeat the process until you finish all the dough.

4. Preparing the lemon cream:
- In a bowl, mix the cornstarch with the powdered sugar, reserving 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar aside. Add the milk and mix well.
- Place the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously with a whisk until it thickens. This step is crucial for obtaining a fine cream. Once the mixture has thickened, let it cool.
- In another bowl, beat the butter with the reserved 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, then add the cooled cream along with the juice and zest of the lemon. Mix well until you achieve a smooth and homogenous cream.

5. Assembling the nuts:
- Fill the nut shells with the lemon cream, ensuring they are well filled. Then, place them in a container and leave them in the fridge for 24 hours. This step will allow the shells to soften and absorb the cream's flavor.
- When serving, dust the nuts with powdered sugar for an attractive appearance and sweet taste.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a touch of originality, try adding a few drops of almond essence to the lemon cream for a unique flavor.
- You can also use other types of citrus, such as limes, to give a different note to the cream.
- These nuts pair perfectly with a cup of herbal tea or a flavored coffee, bringing an extra touch of flavor and comfort.

Nutritional information:
Each serving of lemon cream nuts contains approximately 180 calories, with a balanced content of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The main benefits include the intake of vitamin C from lemons, which is known for its antioxidant properties and for strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace the butter with something else? Yes, you can use margarine or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- How can I store the nuts? They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, and in the fridge, they can last up to 2 weeks.
- Can I make the nuts bigger or smaller? Of course! Adjust the size of the dough balls according to your preferences, but be careful to adjust the baking time.

These lemon cream nuts are not just a quick dessert recipe but also an opportunity to bring a touch of joy into the lives of your loved ones. With each bite, you will feel the perfect combination of crunchy and creamy, in an explosion of citrus flavors. So, put on your apron and let’s cook together a dessert that will surely become a favorite!
Dessert - Walnuts with lemon cream by Nicoleta E. - Recipia

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