Bratislava Horns

Delicious crescents filled with walnut and raisins

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12 crescents

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of freshly baked dough? Crescents filled with walnut and raisins are a true delight, both for breakfast and as an afternoon snack. These treats, with their attractive appearance and savory taste, have roots in culinary traditions from around the world, often prepared for special occasions such as holidays or family gatherings.

The ingredients needed for this crescent recipe are simple and accessible, and the preparation process is, despite the initial impression, quite easy. Here's how to impress your family and friends with these delicious crescents!

Ingredients for the dough:
- 600 g flour
- 50 g powdered sugar
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 200 ml warm milk
- 200 g melted and cooled butter
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt

Ingredients for the filling:
- 200 g ground walnuts
- 30 g raisins
- Zest of one orange
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 150 ml water

Ingredients for brushing:
- 1 egg

Step by step: How to prepare delicious crescents

1. Preparing the dough:
- Start by dissolving the yeast in warm milk. Make sure the milk is not too hot, otherwise, the yeast will be destroyed. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour with powdered sugar and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the beaten eggs, melted (but cooled) butter, and milk with yeast.
- Begin mixing with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a homogeneous dough. If the dough seems too sticky, add a little flour. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and non-sticky.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until it doubles in volume.

2. Preparing the filling:
- In a bowl, mix the ground walnuts, raisins, and orange zest. These ingredients will add a special flavor to your crescents.
- In a pot, combine water with sugar and bring to a boil. Let it boil for 3 minutes, then pour the hot syrup over the walnut mixture. Mix well until combined. Let the filling cool.

3. Shaping the crescents:
- After the dough has risen, take it out of the bowl and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- On a floured surface, flatten each piece of dough into an ellipse shape. Add a tablespoon of walnut filling in the center of each ellipse and spread it evenly.
- Roll the dough from the edge towards the center, forming a crescent shape. Make sure the filling stays well wrapped in the dough.

4. Baking the crescents:
- Place the crescents on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to expand.
- Brush the crescents with a beaten egg yolk to give them a golden and shiny crust. Let them rest for 15-20 minutes.
- Before placing them in the oven, brush the crescents again with the remaining egg white.
- Bake the crescents in a preheated oven at 180°C for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden and browned.

5. Serving and suggestions:
- Let the crescents cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and at room temperature.
- I recommend serving them with a cup of tea or coffee, turning them into a perfect treat for a relaxing afternoon.
- You can sprinkle them with powdered sugar before serving for a more attractive appearance.

Useful tips:
- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a little vanilla essence to the filling or even a few drops of rum.
- Raisins can be replaced with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, to provide a different note.
- These crescents can be frozen after baking. Make sure to let them cool completely and then wrap them in plastic wrap. When you want to consume them, you can bake them directly from the freezer, allowing them to bake a few minutes longer.

Nutritional benefits:
Crescents filled with walnuts are a good source of protein and healthy fats due to the nuts. Raisins add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. These treats can be enjoyed in moderation, being an ideal choice to satisfy a sweet craving.

Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per crescent (depending on the filling and serving size).

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the final result will vary depending on the type chosen.

- How can I improve the texture of the crescents?
Make sure the dough is well-kneaded and that the yeast is active. A well-risen dough will have a fluffy and airy texture.

- Can I add chocolate to the filling?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips will add extra flavor and a delicious contrast to the walnuts.

I hope this recipe inspires you to put your skills to the test and enjoy delicious results! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: DOUGH 600 g flour 50 g powdered sugar 20 g yeast 200 ml milk 200 g butter 2 eggs FILLING 200 g ground walnuts 30 g raisins grated orange peel 150 g powdered sugar 150 ml water GREASING 1 egg

 Tags:  bratislava croissants