Childhood croissants
Jam Horns: The Dessert of Childhood
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 30 horns
It is said that some childhood memories are more precious than gold, and jam horns are definitely one of those sweet memories. These tender pastries, filled with jam, take us back in time to family evenings when the inviting aroma of baking filled the house. This recipe is a tribute to those winter days when mom spoiled us with homemade treats. Let’s discover together how we can recreate this magic in our own kitchen!
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 200 g lard
- 150 g sour cream
- 100 ml white wine
- 3 eggs
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 40 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- Flour as needed (approximately 500 g)
For the filling:
- 200 g ground walnuts
- 350 g plum jam (or other preferred jam)
- Powdered sugar for decoration
Preparation steps
1. Preparing the dough
Start by gathering all the ingredients for the dough. In a large bowl, add the soft lard, sour cream, white wine, eggs, salt, vanilla sugar, and powdered sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to combine the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.
2. Activating the yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in a little warm white wine (from the total quantity) and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it starts to foam. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to use.
3. Mixing the ingredients
Add the activated yeast to the wet ingredient mixture. Then, start incorporating the flour gradually until you obtain a soft dough, but not too firm. It is important not to add too much flour; otherwise, the horns will be dense. In total, you should use approximately 500 g of flour, but adjust according to the dough consistency.
4. Rising the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise at room temperature for 15 minutes. This will allow the yeast to act, and the dough will become fluffy and airy.
5. Shaping the horns
Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions, the size of a tennis ball. Each piece of dough will be rolled out with a rolling pin on a floured surface into a round shape.
Roll out the dough evenly, and using a knife or a cutting wheel, cut it into strips in the shape of rays from the center to the outside. At the base of each ray, place a tablespoon of the filling mixture.
6. The filling
For the filling, simply mix the plum jam with the ground walnuts in a bowl until they become homogeneous. This combination brings a delicious taste and a crunchy texture to your horns.
7. Rolling the horns
Rolling the horns is an art! Start rolling from the base of the dough strip towards the tip, ensuring that the filling stays inside. Place the horns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them to expand during baking.
8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Bake the horns for 30-35 minutes or until they become golden and slightly browned. The aroma will be irresistible!
9. Decorating
Immediately after taking them out of the oven, roll the warm horns in powdered sugar, covering them evenly. This step will give them a special appearance and a perfect sweet taste.
Practical tips
- Choose ingredients carefully: Use high-quality lard and natural jam without additives. These will influence the final taste of the horns.
- Filling variations: Instead of plum jam, you can try apricot, raspberry jam, or even chocolate. Each variation adds a touch of originality to your recipe.
- Storing the horns: These pastries keep well in an airtight container for a few days. You can reheat them slightly in the oven to restore their crunchy texture.
Nutritional benefits
Jam horns are a source of carbohydrates, and the walnuts add protein and healthy fats. Although they are a dessert, when consumed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use margarine instead of lard?
Yes, but the texture and taste will be different. Lard provides a richer taste and a more delicate texture.
- How can I make the horns less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or opt for a low-sugar jam.
- Can I freeze the horns?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked horns. Make sure to cover them well, and when you want to bake them, let them thaw and then bake according to the instructions.
Serving
Jam horns are perfect for serving at an afternoon tea or a gathering with friends. You can accompany this dessert with a cup of fragrant tea or fresh coffee.
I conclude this recipe with the hope that with every bite, you will feel the magic of childhood and enjoy the beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Enjoy cooking!
Ingredients: Dough: 200 g lard 150 g sour cream 100 ml white wine 3 eggs salt 2 packets of vanilla sugar 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar 40 g fresh yeast 1 teaspoon of baking soda flour as needed Filling: 200 g ground walnuts 350 g plum jam powdered sugar
