Buttery Pastry with Raisin and Nut Filling

This Buttery Pastry with Raisin and Nut Filling is a delightful treat, perfect for tea time or dessert. The rich, flaky dough paired with a sweet and nutty filling makes for a satisfying and indulgent bite. The addition of jam adds a fruity note, elevating the flavor to a new level of deliciousness. This recipe is simple to make yet delivers a bakery-quality treat that will impress anyone who tries it.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • Flour – 330 g (2 3/4 cups)
    Provides the structure for the pastry.
  • Butter – 150 g (10 tbsp), chilled and cubed
    Adds richness and creates a flaky texture.
  • Sour Cream – 120 g (1/2 cup)
    Adds moisture and a slight tang to the dough.
  • Milk – 1 tbsp
    Enhances the softness of the dough.
  • Egg Yolk – 1 large
    Contributes to the dough’s rich texture and golden color.
  • Baking Powder – ¼ tsp
    Provides a slight lift for a tender pastry.
  • Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Sugar – to taste
    Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma.
  • Salt – to taste
    Balances the flavors.

For the Filling:

  • Raisins – 100 g (1/2 cup)
    Adds natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
  • Nuts – 100 g (1 cup), chopped (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
    Provides crunch and a nutty flavor.
  • Sugar – 1-2 tbsp
    Sweetens the filling.
  • Jam or Preserves (optional) – 10-15 g (1 tbsp)
    Adds a fruity layer to the filling.

Steps to Make:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
  2. Add the chilled butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, milk, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface until smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a small bowl, mix the chopped nuts, raisins, and sugar. If using jam, set it aside for layering later.

Step 3: Assemble the Pastries

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 3-4 mm.
  3. Cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on your desired pastry shape.
  4. Place a spoonful of the raisin and nut filling in the center of each dough piece. If using jam, add a small dollop on top of the filling.
  5. Fold the dough over the filling to form your preferred shape (e.g., triangles, crescents, or pockets). Press the edges to seal.

Step 4: Bake the Pastries

  1. Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
  2. Brush the tops with a little milk or an egg wash for a golden finish.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the pastries to cool slightly on a wire rack.
  2. Dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~200 kcal
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes! Walnuts, pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts work well in this recipe. Choose your favorite or mix them for variety.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

3. Can I add spices to the filling?

Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg complements the sweetness of the raisins and adds a warm flavor.

Tips for Perfect Pastries:

  1. Keep the Butter Cold: Use chilled butter to ensure a flaky pastry texture.
  2. Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid leakage during baking.
  3. Seal Well: Press the edges firmly to prevent the filling from spilling out.
  4. Experiment with Shapes: Try different shapes like crescents or turnovers for a variety of presentations.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store the baked pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven before serving.
  2. Freezing: Freeze unbaked pastries for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
  3. Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough and filling a day ahead. Assemble and bake fresh for the best results.

Conclusion:

These Buttery Pastries with Raisin and Nut Filling are a delightful combination of flaky dough and sweet, nutty filling. Easy to customize and perfect for any occasion, this recipe will become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy family gathering or as a special treat, these pastries are guaranteed to impress. Follow this recipe to create a homemade dessert that everyone will love!