Baskets with jam and nuts
Jam and nut baskets - a delicacy that perfectly combines flavor and texture. These baskets are ideal for any occasion, whether it's a party, a family meal, or simply to indulge your taste buds. With a flaky dough and a fluffy nut meringue filling, each bite is an explosion of flavors. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy step by step!
Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Number of servings: 12 baskets
Ingredients
*For the dough:*
- 4 egg yolks
- 75 g powdered sugar
- 200 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon ammonium bicarbonate (dissolved in lemon juice)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- About 400 g flour
- Grated zest of one orange
*For the filling:*
- 4 egg whites
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 cup ground nuts
- Vanilla essence
- Jam (any kind, preferably apricot or sour cherry)
Preparation
1. Preparing the dough
Start by beating the egg yolks with the powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to achieve a fluffy, light-colored cream. This will ensure an airy texture for the dough.
2. Adding wet ingredients
Add the soft butter and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Then, add the milk, oil, orange zest, and vanilla essence. In a small bowl, mix the ammonium bicarbonate with lemon juice to activate it and then add it to the mixture.
3. Kneading the dough
Gradually start incorporating the flour, gently mixing with a spatula or your hands. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it is too sticky, add a little more flour.
4. Forming the baskets
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 3-4 mm. Use a glass or a cutter to cut circles from the dough. Place the circles in the basket molds, ensuring the dough is well distributed along the walls of the mold.
5. Preparing the filling
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm, glossy meringue. Gently fold in the ground nuts and cocoa, being careful not to deflate the meringue.
6. Assembling the baskets
In each basket, place a teaspoon of jam, then using a piping bag with a corner cut off, add a layer of meringue on top. This step is essential to keep the jam filling intact and provide that fluffy texture.
7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the baskets for 20-25 minutes or until the meringue is lightly golden and firm. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 15 minutes of baking to avoid deflating the meringue.
8. Cooling and serving
Once ready, let the baskets cool in the molds for 5 minutes, then carefully remove them and place them on a platter. Optionally, you can dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look.
Useful tips
- If you want to add a touch of originality, try replacing the jam with chocolate cream or berry jam.
- The baskets can be stored in an airtight container for a few days, but it's recommended to consume them fresh to enjoy the crispy texture of the dough.
- These baskets pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, but also with a sweet wine for a refined culinary experience.
Nutritional benefits
These jam and nut baskets are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats due to the nuts, while the jam provides a quick energy boost. Of course, they should be consumed in moderation, but they can be a good choice for an occasional dessert.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! Pecan nuts or almonds can add a different and interesting flavor.
2. What other ingredients can I use for the filling?
You can experiment with milk cocoa, melted chocolate, or even fresh fruits.
3. How can I make the baskets more flavorful?
Add flavors like cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a more complex taste.
These jam and nut baskets are more than just a simple dessert; they bring together tradition and innovation in a delicious way. Be sure to try them and don't forget to share with loved ones! Enjoy!
Ingredients: For the dough: 4 egg yolks, 4 tablespoons of milk, 200 g butter, 75 g powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of oil, 1 teaspoon of ammonium bicarbonate, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, approx. 400 g flour. For the filling: 4 egg whites, 3 tablespoons of cocoa, 1 cup of ground nuts, vanilla essence, grated orange peel, jam.
