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
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- 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.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, milk, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- 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
- 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
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 3-4 mm.
- Cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on your desired pastry shape.
- 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.
- 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
- Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
- Brush the tops with a little milk or an egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Allow the pastries to cool slightly on a wire rack.
- 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:
- Keep the Butter Cold: Use chilled butter to ensure a flaky pastry texture.
- Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid leakage during baking.
- Seal Well: Press the edges firmly to prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Experiment with Shapes: Try different shapes like crescents or turnovers for a variety of presentations.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store the baked pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked pastries for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
- 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!