Almond cubes

Almond Cubes - A Crunchy and Sweet Delicacy

Journey into the world of sweet delights, where flavors intertwine to create an unforgettable culinary experience! Today, I invite you to prepare a simple and delicious recipe for almond cubes, perfect for any occasion, from gatherings with friends to festive celebrations. These cubes are a perfect combination of flaky dough and rich, crunchy filling that will captivate you from the very first bite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 18-20 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 24 cubes

Recipe history
Almond cubes have a long-standing tradition in gastronomy, often prepared for special occasions. This recipe combines pastry techniques with simple ingredients, and the result is always impressive. Almonds not only provide a crunchy texture, but they are also an excellent source of nutrients, being rich in healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins.

Ingredients
*For the dough*
- 250g flour (you can use up to 300g if the dough is too soft)
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 120g powdered sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon (or 3 drops of lemon essence)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 200g butter or margarine, at room temperature

*For the filling*
- 120g sugar
- 100g butter or margarine
- 80g honey
- 250g chopped almonds
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

*For the glaze*
- 150-200g milk chocolate

Preparation techniques
1. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder and salt. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla sugar, lemon zest, and mix well. Add the butter and knead with your hands until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. Add the egg and milk, kneading until you obtain a homogeneous but slightly soft dough. If necessary, you can add a little flour to make it firmer.

2. Chilling the dough
Divide the dough into two equal parts, form balls, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Leave them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for easier shaping of the dough.

3. Preparing the filling
In a saucepan, add the sugar, butter, and honey. Place over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture starts to boil. Turn off the heat and add the chopped almonds and vanilla sugar. Let it cool slightly.

4. Rolling out the dough
After the dough has cooled, start rolling it out between two sheets of parchment paper until you achieve a thickness of 2-3 mm. This method will help you avoid worrying about the dough sticking to the work surface.

5. Assembling the cubes
Place the first sheet of dough in a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Pour the almond filling and level it well. Then, take the second sheet of dough and, if necessary, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to make it easier to detach. Carefully place it on top of the filling, pressing lightly with your fingers to adhere.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray inside. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the dough turns golden and firm to the touch. Once baked, let them cool completely in the tray.

7. Glazing
After the cubes have cooled, cut them into desired shapes. Melt the chocolate in a bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave, being careful not to burn it. Dip the cubes in the melted chocolate, ensuring they are completely covered. Place them on parchment paper or plastic wrap to harden.

8. Storing
Once the glaze has hardened, store the cubes in tin or plastic containers, kept in cool places.

Useful tips
- You can replace almonds with other nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts, to vary the flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a more aromatic taste.
- If you want a crunchier texture, toast the almonds before adding them to the filling.
- These cubes can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect dessert for relaxation moments.

Nutritional benefits
Almonds are an excellent source of healthy fats, fiber, protein, and vitamins, contributing to heart health and maintaining a healthy body weight. Additionally, milk chocolate, in moderation, can provide benefits for brain health due to its antioxidant content.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture will vary.
2. Can I freeze the almond cubes?
Certainly! Make sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.
3. Is it possible to add dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried fruits like raisins or apricots are an excellent addition.

Now it’s time to start cooking! With this recipe, not only will you impress your loved ones, but you will also bring a touch of joy in every bite. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Dough - 250g flour (I used about 300g because the dough was a bit soft and sticky) - 1 pinch baking powder - 1 pinch salt - 120g powdered sugar - 1 packet vanilla sugar - 3 drops of lemon essence (I used the zest of 1 lemon) - 1 egg - 2 tablespoons milk - 200g butter/margarine. Filling - 120g sugar - 100g butter/margarine - 80g honey - 250g chopped almonds - 1 packet vanilla sugar. Glaze - 150-200g milk chocolate.