Fluffy croissants and heart-shaped pastries with nuts and chocolate.

Fluffy croissants and heart-shaped pastries with walnut and chocolate

Who doesn't love a sweet and fluffy snack, especially when it comes to delicious croissants and heart-shaped pastries? This recipe is not only perfect for celebrating love during the dedicated week, but it can also be made anytime you crave something special. The dough is extremely soft and fragrant, and the walnut and chocolate filling adds a touch of magic to every bite. Let's get to work and turn simple ingredients into true delights!

Total time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 16 croissants and 10 hearts

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 800 g flour
- 4 eggs (3 yolks and 2 whites)
- 200 g sugar
- 450-500 ml warm milk
- 3 tablespoons dry yeast
- 100 g melted butter
- 100 ml oil
- 50 g raisins
- a pinch of salt
- vanilla essence (to taste)

For the filling:
- 200 g ground walnuts (not too fine)
- 100 g milk chocolate
- 3-4 tablespoons Nutella
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (for consistency)

For brushing:
- one egg
- 30 g butter for greasing the trays (or baking paper)
- 2-3 tablespoons poppy seeds (optional)

Ingredient tips:
Type 000 or 550 flour is ideal for achieving a fluffy dough. Choose a quality chocolate that melts easily for a creamy and delicious filling. If you want to add a hint of flavor, feel free to use grated lemon or orange zest in the dough.

Recipe history:
Croissants and heart-shaped pastries are traditional sweet treats often associated with holidays and special moments. They have been loved for generations, often served at festive meals or as family snacks. The combination of walnuts and chocolate is a classic that blends textures and flavors in an absolutely delightful way.

Preparation:

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, rub 3 tablespoons of sugar with the dry yeast and 100 ml of warm milk. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes in a warm place until foam forms on the surface.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour and make a well in the center. Add the activated yeast, egg yolks, salt, vanilla essence, raisins, and half of the warm milk. Initially mix with a spoon, then knead with your hands.

3. Adding the fats: As you knead, gradually add the melted butter and oil, continuing to knead for 35-40 minutes until the dough becomes soft and elastic. If you feel the dough is too hard, add a little warm yogurt to soften it.

4. Letting the dough rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for an hour, or until it doubles in volume.

5. Preparing the filling: Melt the chocolate in a double boiler, adding 2-3 tablespoons of milk and Nutella. Mix well and add the ground walnuts. Make sure the filling doesn't become too soft.

6. Forming the croissants: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into two equal parts. Each part will be rolled out into a round sheet, then cut into 8 wedges (like a pizza). Place a tablespoon of filling on each wedge and roll from the edge inward to form croissants. Place them in the greased tray or on baking paper and let them rise for 10-15 minutes.

7. Forming the hearts: From the remaining dough, shape 8-10 pieces. Roll each piece into a small sheet, spread with filling, roll up, and cut lengthwise, then join the ends to form hearts.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the croissants and hearts with beaten egg and sprinkle poppy seeds on top of the croissants. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden.

9. Cooling: Let them cool for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a platter.

10. Serving: These fluffy croissants and delicious heart-shaped pastries can be served warm or cold. The aromatic taste of walnut and chocolate will delight any sweet lover. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for an unforgettable experience.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of filling?
- Yes, you can experiment with fillings like fruit preserves, sweet cheese, or even white chocolate.

2. How can I keep the croissants and hearts fresh?
- Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for later consumption.

3. Can I make the dough a day in advance?
- Absolutely! You can let the dough rise in the refrigerator overnight. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before using it.

These fluffy croissants and heart-shaped pastries with walnut and chocolate are a perfect choice to treat family and friends. Enjoy every step of the preparation and savor the final result! Bon appétit!