Walnut Horns

Walnut Crescents: A Crispy and Aromatic Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 24 crescents

The history of these walnut crescents is lost in the mists of time, but it is certain that they are a delicacy appreciated in many cultures. Whether served at festive meals or as a delicious snack alongside a glass of warm milk, these crescents perfectly blend the fluffy texture of the dough with the rich filling of walnut and vanilla.

Ingredients:
- 1.2 kg all-purpose flour
- 250 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 egg yolks
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- 700 ml lukewarm milk
- 50 g lard or 50 g butter (melted)
- 300 g ground walnuts
- 200 g sugar for filling
- Rum essence (to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 egg for brushing

Step by step:

1. Activating the yeast: Start by crumbling the fresh yeast into a small bowl. Add a teaspoon of sugar and 70 ml of lukewarm milk. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This essential step will ensure effective rising of the dough.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour, the remaining sugar, the egg, the two egg yolks, half of the lemon zest, the vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the lukewarm milk and lard or melted butter. Use a spatula to integrate the ingredients.

3. Kneading: Once the ingredients are well mixed, knead the dough for 20-30 minutes. It is important to pay attention to this step, as kneading will develop the gluten and incorporate air into the dough, resulting in a fluffy texture. In the end, the dough should be elastic and easy to handle.

4. Rising: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in volume. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy crescents.

5. Preparing the filling: In another bowl, mix the ground walnuts with the sugar, rum essence, and the remaining lemon zest. This filling will give the crescents a rich and aromatic flavor, perfectly balanced.

6. Shaping the crescents: After the dough has risen, divide it into balls the size of an egg. Place them on a work surface sprinkled with a little flour. Use a rolling pin to roll each ball into an oval shape. Generously sprinkle the walnut and sugar mixture over the surface of the dough, then roll it tightly to form the crescents.

7. Arranging on the tray: Place the crescents on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to expand during baking.

8. Brushing: Beat an egg and brush each crescent with a thin layer. This step will give a golden and appetizing crust in the end.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 140 degrees Celsius. Bake the crescents for 50 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy. It is important to check them in the last 10 minutes to ensure they do not burn, considering the differences in oven power.

10. Cooling and serving: Once baked, remove the crescents from the oven and let them cool on the tray for a few minutes. Then, gently detach them and place them on a platter.

Serving suggestions: Walnut crescents are delicious served alongside a glass of warm milk or aromatic tea. You can also add a little plum jam or sour cherry preserves for a pleasant contrast of flavors.

Personalized variation: For a unique touch, you can add a few pieces of dark chocolate or raisins to the walnut filling. These ingredients will add a surprising texture and flavor, thus enhancing the classic recipe.

Nutritional benefits: These crescents contain walnuts, which are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants. The all-purpose flour and sugar provide quick energy, but you can opt for whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners for a healthier version.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh? Yes, you can use about 7 g of dry yeast, making sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.
- Can I replace lard with butter? Sure! Butter will give a richer flavor to the crescents.
- How can I keep the crescents fresh? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

These walnut crescents are a perfect choice for any occasion, bringing joy and flavor in every bite. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1,200 kg white flour 250 g sugar 1 egg 2 egg yolks 20 g fresh yeast 1 sachet vanilla sugar grated zest of 1 lemon 700 ml lukewarm milk 50 g lard (butter) 300 g ground walnuts 200 g sugar rum essence salt 1 egg for brushing

 Tags:  walnut croissants dough